Lighting Sales - Distributor/Contractor

C&O Sales; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

C&O Sales is seeking an experienced and motivated sales professional to expand and support our contractor and distributor customer base, with a strong focus on lighting products and solutions.

This position requires a background in lighting products and the ability to work independently to develop new business, build customer relationships, and meet company goals. Primary clients include lighting contractors, lighting distributors, design-build teams, and other specification influencers.

Qualifications

• Background in lighting sales preferred or strong knowledge of AGI 32 layouts and lighting distribution.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently in the field and collaboratively in the office.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain relationships with lighting contractors, distributors, specifiers, and other decision-makers by providing product education, project support, and consultative sales service.
• Promote lighting product lines by identifying customer needs and delivering tailored product solutions, cost-saving strategies, and logistical support.
• Stay current on industry trends, project developments, competitive products, and manufacturer updates, and communicate key insights to the team and management.
• Track and manage project opportunities from initial inquiry through completion using internal tools for call activity, quotes, and project status.
• Deliver technical product presentations, support trainings, and job-site visits, and attend trade shows or marketing events to promote manufacturer partners.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to coordinate project timelines, submittals, and other deliverables.

Job description

C&O Sales is seeking an experienced and motivated sales professional to expand and support our contractor and distributor customer base, with a strong focus on lighting products and solutions. This position requires a background in lighting products and the ability to work independently to develop new business, build customer relationships, and meet company goals. Primary clients include lighting contractors, lighting distributors, design-build teams, and other specification influencers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with lighting contractors, distributors, specifiers, and other decision-makers by providing product education, project support, and consultative sales service.
• Promote C&O Sales’ lighting product lines by identifying customer needs and delivering tailored product solutions, cost-saving strategies, and logistical support.
• Stay current on industry trends, project developments, competitive products, and manufacturer updates, and communicate key insights to the team and management.
• Track and manage project opportunities from initial inquiry through completion using internal tools such as TTS and Oasis for call activity, quotes, and project status.
• Deliver technical product presentations, support trainings, and job-site visits, and attend trade shows or marketing events to promote manufacturer partners.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to coordinate project timelines, submittals, and other deliverables.
• Take initiative in promoting new product launches and sales promotions, including in-person follow-up and outreach as directed by sales management.
• Participate in weekly sales meetings, training sessions, and manufacturer briefings.
• Maintain a professional image in appearance, communication, and conduct. If applicable, keep company vehicle clean and presentable.
• Submit monthly expense reports and follow all company policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Background in lighting sales with the ability to do AGI 32 layouts or lighting distribution. (required or strongly preferred)
• Experience selling to lighting contractors and/or working with lighting distributors.
• Comfortable reading blueprints, lighting layouts, and construction documents.
• Knowledge of lighting controls, energy code requirements, and LED technology is a plus.
• Self-motivated and goal-oriented with the ability to work independently in the field and collaboratively in the office.
• Personable, professional, and skilled at building lasting customer relationships.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Well-organized with strong follow-through and attention to detail.
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Capable of interacting with individuals at all levels, from field personnel to executives.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and commitment to company values.