Account executive jobs in Temple, TX

Department: Sales & Customer Service Reports To: VP of Sales Job Purpose: The Key Accounts (Business Development) team drives new business growth by identifying, prospecting, and securing customers. Acting as a “hunter,” this role builds relationships with target accounts, converts competitive opportunities, and manages early-stage development until an Account Manager provides ongoing support. Success requires consultative selling-evaluating operations, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending solutions that reduce downtime, improve throughput, and increase end-user profitability. The Key Accounts Representative may stay engaged to pursue additional competitive wins. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Identify and research potential customers through market intelligence, referrals, and CRM tools (Proton). • Prospect, cold call, and schedule discovery meetings with decision-makers at target accounts. • Conduct needs assessments and operational reviews to understand customer processes, downtime risks, and productivity challenges. • Recommend Richards Supply solutions and programs designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and drive customer profitability. • Present Richards Supply offerings in a consultative, value-focused manner that emphasizes problem-solving and ROI. • Develop and manage early-stage customer relationships, ensuring smooth onboarding and initial order execution. • Transition established customers to an Account Manager (“farmer”) for long-term support while remaining engaged for competitive conversions and growth. • Use Proton (CRM) and Profit21 (ERP) for activity tracking, quoting, pipeline management, and forecasting. • Collaborate with Inside Sales, Inventory, and Customer Service teams to ensure high service levels for new accounts. • Continuously monitor competitor activity and proactively pursue opportunities to displace competitors. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS Be On Time • Respond promptly to new lead inquiries and customer requests. • Execute time and territory planning to ensure on-time arrival for all meetings and appointments • Maintain consistent weekly activity levels (calls, visits, and prospecting touchpoints). Do It Right • Accurately document customer interactions, opportunities, and pipeline stages in CRM. • Conduct thorough customer evaluations and present accurate recommendations that align with Richards Supply's capabilities. • Provide customers with accurate, timely product and program information that demonstrates operational value. Work As One • Partner with Account Managers to ensure seamless customer handoff and long-term satisfaction. • Collaborate with Inventory and Purchasing to set up stock items that support new customer programs. • Share customer feedback and operational insights with Sales Leadership and peers to strengthen team strategy. CLEAR LINE OF SIGHT Each role at Richards Supply supports our company goal: earning a “seat at the table” in our customers' production and planning meetings. This section explains how the Key Accounts team builds customer trust and long-term value. • Opens doors to new customers by demonstrating responsiveness, persistence, and value. • Builds trust early through consultative selling-evaluating operations and recommending ways to increase efficiency. • Positions Richards Supply as a partner who delivers measurable financial impact, not just products. • Takes ownership to deepen relationships, driving long-term loyalty and profitability. QUALIFICATIONS Required • Proven experience in new business and territory development • Strong prospecting, cold calling, and negotiation skills. • Proficiency in CRM systems (Proton preferred) and ERP tools (Profit21 preferred). • Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills. • Valid driver's license and ability to travel daily within assigned territory. Preferred • Industrial distribution, MRO, or safety supply sales experience. • Knowledge of Richards Supply product lines and supplier programs. • Track record of competitive conversions and exceeding sales targets. Physical Requirements • Regular driving within territory and occasional overnight travel. • Exposure to hot and cold work environments and inclement weather. • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. for product demonstrations or trade shows. • Prolonged periods of standing or walking during customer visits, trade events, or facility tours. WORK ENVIRONMENT • Primarily field-based with daily travel to customer sites, industrial facilities, and offices. • Regular use of laptop, CRM/ERP software, and mobile phone for communication and reporting. • Occasional work in warehouse/industrial environments, requiring safety PPE. • May involve travel to other Richards Supply branches or supplier locations for training and collaboration.