What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Specialist position at Bayard Inc?
Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and motivated Product Specialist to join our Bayard USA Team! The Religious Product Specialist drives inside sales and delivers exceptional service to dioceses, parishes, schools, bookstores, and individual customers. This role conducts outbound and inbound outreach, qualifies prospects, recommends solutions, and closes sales while maintaining accurate records in Pressto/Elan and coordinating closely with Customer Service and custom product workflows.
Bayard USA, a Catholic publisher with over 150 years of history, is dedicated to welcoming and accompanying people at every stage of life through our diverse editorial content. Founded by the Augustinians of the Assumption, Bayard’s stability and editorial independence are rooted in our mission and values. Today, we publish over 190 titles and continue to grow with purpose and integrity.
Key Responsibilities:
Sales Outreach & Pipeline Management:
- Conduct outbound calls/emails using prepared talk tracks and tailored value propositions; respond to inbound inquiries.
- Qualify leads from web/email/postcard sample requests; secure sample placements and close follow-up orders.
- Up-sell and cross-sell based on discovered customer needs; provide pricing and formal quotes.
- Maintain an organized callback cadence and territory plan to meet renewal and new-business goals.
Customer Experience & Account Service:
- Ensure a high degree of customer satisfaction; resolve questions and supervise corrective actions when orders are incorrect.
- Provide campaign information, product specs, and samples/links; educate customers on navigating Bayard sites and resources.
- Order Entry & Data Integrity:
- Enter and verify orders in Pressto and Elan; process adjustments, confirmations, and special services (pro formas/emailed invoices).
- Maintain clean, complete database records (contacts, notes, reactions, purchase history) and use correct marketing codes.
Custom & Group Sales Coordination:
- Partner with the Custom Product Coordinator on GNP custom orders, guiding customers on custom covers/handbook pages, specs, and deadlines; assist with finalizing school orders.
Continuous Improvement & Teamwork:
- Contribute suggestions to improve sales tactics, customer service processes, and campaign execution; collaborate effectively across the team.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; AA/BA preferred.
- Minimum 1 year of related experience (inside sales, customer service, or ministry resources).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and CRM/order systems (Pressto, Elan).
- Strong communication, objection-handling, and relationship-building skills; detail-oriented with sound follow-through.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable automobile required (limited travel as needed).
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
- Office-based role with frequent phone/email activity.
- Possibility of working remotely after 3-6 months.
- Requires prolonged periods of sitting and computer use.
- Occasional standing, walking, bending, or lifting of light packages.
- Quiet office environment with regular sales activity peaks.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
- Professional growth opportunities in sales and customer service.
- A collaborative, mission-driven environment.
- The opportunity to support dioceses, schools, and parishes with quality resources.
EEO Statement:
Bayard Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or any other protected characteristic.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have your own vehicle?
Ability to Commute:
- Fenton, MO 63026 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Fenton, MO 63026: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $17