Sales Associate

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. is looking for an entry-level sales support professional in Chicago, Illinois. This role involves ensuring data accuracy in Salesforce, coordinating meeting logistics, and supporting various sales operations activities.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent time management and communication skills, a customer-focused mindset, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM platforms. Opportunities for career advancement are available.

Qualifications

• Entry-level hire with a desire to start a career in sales.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Ensure data hygiene and record accuracy in Salesforce.
• Serve as internal face on billing and finance issues.
• Monitor sales pipeline health by flagging key accounts.

Skills

Time management

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Customer-focused mindset

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Tools

Salesforce

HubSpot

Job description

Responsibilities

1. Sales Operations & CRM Management
   1. Ensure data hygiene and record accuracy in Salesforce.
   2. Serve as internal face on billing and finance issues (e.g., purchase orders, invoices).
   3. Manage contracting process for client projects, including documentation, background/reference checks, drug screens, and onboarding activities.
   4. Maintain structured documentation of account activity, meeting notes, and sales touchpoints.
   5. Monitor sales pipeline health by flagging key accounts, upcoming extensions, and overdue follow‑ups.
   6. Support the CRO in pipeline and forecast reporting.
2. Cross‑functional Coordination and Project Support
   1. Partner with marketing, operations, and sales to update content, drive campaigns and share best practices.
   2. Share learnings, tools, and research templates to elevate team standards.
   3. Contribute to special projects such as tech platform adoption, process improvements, and internal training initiatives.
3. Lead Generation Support & Internal Coordination
   1. Identify prospective client targets through research on title, role, responsibilities, and organizational structure.
   2. Own internal meeting logistics and scheduling for sales team.
   3. Track outreach efforts and outcomes to support campaign effectiveness analysis.
   4. Collaborate with BDR where appropriate.
4. Research & Meeting Preparation
   1. Collaborate with BDRs to conduct deep account research.
   2. Develop briefing materials and meeting preparation notes for Sales Executives.
   3. Support collateral development, including slides, case studies, and research summaries.
   4. Capture key takeaways from meetings and assist in coordinating follow‑up activities.

Qualifications

1. Entry‑level hire. A desire to start a career in sales and advance within the company.
2. Excellent time management and organizational skills.
3. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
4. The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
5. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
6. Previous administrative or sales support experience preferred.
7. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot).
8. Customer‑focused mindset with a sense of urgency.
9. High level of professionalism and discretion.
10. Collaborative and adaptable team player.

Equal Opportunity Employer

BTG is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to hiring qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, veteran or military status, or citizenship status. BTG is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and/or adjustments during the recruitment process if required for interview.