VMI Sales Representative

John Henry Foster; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)

401(k) with company match

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

John Henry Foster in Decatur, Illinois, is seeking a motivated Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Representative. The successful candidate will manage VMI programs, support customer operations, and drive sales growth while ensuring timely inventory replenishment of products.

The ideal applicant should have a minimum of 3–5 years of experience in customer service or sales, possess strong communication abilities, and be capable of managing multiple priorities effectively. A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, dental, and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in customer service, sales, VMI, or related field.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage VMI programs within an assigned territory.
• Identify and grow new accounts for VMI products.
• Collaborate with outside sales for quality customer service.

Skills

Customer service

Sales

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Communication

Problem-solving

Job description

We're a 100% employee‑owned company looking to add an experienced representative to our team. Someone who values quality and is committed to excellence and service, and who can start making an immediate impact for our customers.

We have a great opportunity for a highly motivated, career‑minded Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Representative to join our team and provide excellent service to our customers. The role is responsible for managing VMI programs within an assigned territory, supporting customer operations, driving incremental sales growth, and executing accurate, timely inventory replenishment of pneumatic and hydraulic products.

Responsibilities

• Identify and grow new accounts/targets, expanding existing business by seeking new opportunities for VMI products.
• Collaborate with the outside sales team to deliver quality customer service, identify additional needs, problem‑solve, and recommend non‑VMI products.
• Identify, address, and solve customer concerns and problems using innovative approaches.
• Manage an effective, efficient routing schedule to restock products at customer locations; collaborate with vendors to optimize delivery schedules and lead times.
• Use the ERP system to manage customer data, generate orders and quotes, analyze sales trends, and support inventory and lead‑generation activities.
• Maintain the company van and onboard inventory in a clean, organized condition; promptly investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies.
• Actively participate in continuous learning opportunities such as technical and product training.
• Perform any additional duties or projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in customer service, sales, VMI, industrial distribution or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities while ensuring accuracy and attention to detail.
• Experience prioritizing time to increase efficiency and working independently without daily supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to follow instructions.
• Basic knowledge of computer applications.
• Talent for building strong relationships and strong interpersonal skills to interact with vendors and customers.

Position Location

Central Illinois (Decatur, Springfield, Effingham)

Pay & Benefits Package

• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, HSA, and FSA plans to choose from starting on day one.
• Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
• 401(k) with company contribution/match.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.