Sales Representative - Turf & Ornamental

Gowan Company; Illinois; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Gowan Company seeks a dynamic Turf and Ornamental Territory Sales Representative to drive growth in the AR, IA, IL, LA, KS, MO, MN, NE, ND, OK, PR, SD, TX, WI region. You will own the territory’s P&L, build distributor and grower relationships, and coordinate with internal teams on forecasting and logistics.

The role demands a self-starter with high energy, strong communication, and a proven track record in agriculture-related sales.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 3–5 years of professional experience in an agriculture-related organization.
• Familiarity with turf and ornamental products, prior distributor or channel sales experience

Responsibilities

• Drive sales growth, manage territory budget, and coordinate with internal teams on forecasting, warehousing, and logistics.
• Cultivate strong ties with distributors, field reps, key growers, university researchers, consultants, and industry groups to influence market strategy.
• Represent regional needs within the company, align Gowan’s resources to local opportunities, and champion new product ideas for the region and company.
• Develop 2–3-year business plans, identify priority products, and work closely with Field Development Reps to outline trial needs for portfolio and territory.
• Strengthen Gowan’s reputation through market intelligence and a visible commitment to agriculture in the region.
• Serve as a champion for issues important to the turf and ornamental industry. Take an active role in industry associations that support our products and customers.

Skills

Territory sales

Relationship building

Forecasting

Logistics coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Turf and Ornamental Territory Sales Representative

Position Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and driven Sales Representative who is a high-energy self-starter with a passion for building relationships and driving growth. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic, personable, and demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility, integrity, and accountability.

Job Status:

• Full-Time
• Exempt
• Gowan Central Turf and Ornamental Sales Territory – (AR, IA, IL, LA, KS, MO, MN, NE, ND, OK, PR, SD, TX, WI)
• Reports to: Regional Business Manager – U.S Turf and Ornamental

Role Responsibilities:

• P&L Ownership:Drive sales growth, manage territory budget, and coordinate with internal teams on forecasting, warehousing, and logistics.
• Relationship Building:Cultivate strong ties with distributors, field reps, key growers, university researchers, consultants, and industry groups to influence market strategy.
• Internal Advocacy:Represent regional needs within the company, align Gowan’s resources to local opportunities, and champion new product ideas for the region and company.
• Strategic Planning:Develop 2–3-year business plans, identify priority products, and work closely with Field Development Reps to outline trial needs for portfolio and territory.
• Regional Presence:Strengthen Gowan’s reputation through market intelligence and a visible commitment to agriculture in the region.
• Industry Advocacy:Serve as a champion for issues important to the turf and ornamental industry. Take an active role in industry associations that support our products and customers.
• Other Duties as assigned

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree with 3–5 years of professional experience in an agriculture-related organization.
• Preferred: Familiarity with turf and ornamental products, prior distributor or channel sales experience

Key Attributes:

• High Energy and Enthusiasm:Brings a positive attitude and contagious energy to interactions, inspiring customers and teammates alike.
• Self-Starter:Takes initiative with limited direct supervision, works independently, and proactively seeks opportunities to grow the business.
• Strong Work Ethic:Demonstrates commitment to rigorous work, consistently going above and beyond to meet and exceed goals.
• Organized and Detail-Oriented:Manages time effectively, keeps accurate records, and follows through on commitments with precision.
• Flexible and Adaptable:Thrives in changing environments, adjusts strategies as needed, and remains composed under pressure.
• Excellent Communication Skills:Communicates clearly and persuasively, both verbally and in writing, with internal teams and external clients.
• Customer-Focused:Builds trust and rapport with clients, understands their needs, and delivers tailored solutions.
• Team-Oriented:Collaborates well with others, contributes to a positive team culture, and supports shared success.