Account Manager, IL

Verdesian is seeking an individual to fill our remote Account Manager, Sales role in IL. The Account Manager is responsible for growing Verdesian’s retail customer base within assigned territory by selling the full product portfolio. This role focuses on identifying and onboarding new retail partners, providing product training, and supporting adoption through expert guidance. The Account Manager will develop and execute annual territory and business plans, collaborate with VIP customers, and provide accurate sales forecasts to ensure proper product availability. They are expected to manage their operating budgets responsibly and work cross-functionally with Marketing and R&D to align product development with customer needs. Success in this role requires strong product knowledge, sales acumen, and a commitment to delivering value to both customers and the organization. Essential Responsibilities: Drive business growth in assigned region calling on and building business with new retailers, establishing a recurring book of business, to achieve territory revenue and profit targets Own the entire sales cycle from cold calling and initial retailer engagement to selling products and managing the retailer Maintain a high level of product knowledge & develop strong relationships to become a consultant with prospective/acquired retailers overcoming market challenges and positioning the value of Verdesian products Develop business plans to strategically target retailers in assigned territory forecasting future sales and budgets Leverage and execute lead generation campaigns and research trials as appropriate Structure weekly/monthly sales efforts to achieve business plans and territory target Anticipate retailers and territory needs regularly engaging marketing, customer service, and other departments to share market trends and prepare for future territory growth Understand and deploy a working knowledge of EPA and state regulations Facilitate business relationships contributing to public relations Other Account Manager duties not listed above as required Qualifications: Interest & belief in the importance of nutrient use efficiency Experience selling inoculants, fertilizer enhancers, and/or micronutrients a plus Minimum work experience of 5 years full-time exempt sales experience in Agriculture industry Preferred education of BA or BS degree in Agriculture related field Criteria: Strong communication (both written and verbal) and presentation skills Proven ability to develop deep working relationships Ability to clearly articulate key product benefits and selling points based on retailer needs Proven persuasion and negotiation skills Effective time management and organization skills to succeed in fast-paced environment Proven track record in business-to-business sales environment Ability to work with and establish rapport with Chemical Fertilizer Dealership Staff, Certified Crop Advisors, and Independent Crop Consultants Ability to interface and engage with academic arenas Efficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) & CRM systems Maintain a clean driving record with ability to travel long distances Experience in lead generation and qualification a plus Strong understanding of biological technologies as related to agriculture a plus Verdesian Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex, and sexual orientation.