What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vice President of Sales position at Benchmade Knife Company and Careers?
COMPANY CULTURE
We Rally. No matter what each day throws at us, we work together to find solutions that exceed the problem at hand. It’s a collaborative, empowering phrase that speaks to our resilience while chasing our mission to elevate the entire knife category. Our reputation for enduring quality is evident in every knife we release. Our core values drive how we treat our employees, our customers, and our retail partners.
- Elevate Everything: We bring a specific set of skills to the table, offering up our expertise and resources to enhance the work of others. We challenge each other to be the best in order to achieve enduring value in the eyes of our customers.
- Better is Better: There is no finish line; we strive for continuous improvement in everything we do. We obsess over every detail to find ways to improve our products and our process.
- Unapologetically Accountable: We’re open and honest in how we speak and listen. We celebrate each other’s successes and collectively rally to solve every challenge. We own it!
- Courageous Innovation: There are elegant ideas awaiting discovery in everything we do. We push everyone around us to pursue those ideas openly so we can continue to dominate the category.
- Community-Driven: As a family business, we understand the importance of enriching the communities we call home. As a company, and as individuals, we work to make our expertise available to do the most good for those around us.
ABOUT BENCHMADE
With a rich history dating back over 30 years, Benchmade is the product of many dedicated employees, a never-quit demand for excellence and the de Asis family’s vision and total commitment to culture, service and innovation. Les de Asis incorporated as Bali-Song®, Inc. and rented a small shop in a second-story mezzanine in California. The original equipment was purchased from the owner of a manufacturing operation who was looking to retire. Utilizing the rudimentary technology available to him at the time, Les began building handmade custom Bali-Songs, and the success of these custom Balis spurred the creation of the first production Bali-Song®: The model 68. Over the next seven years, the company expanded its product offerings into fixed blades and conventional folding knives, and evolved its name from Bali-song®, Inc. to Pacific Cutlery Corp. Due to its inability to control quality, price, and delivery, Pacific Cutlery Corp. filed for bankruptcy and was dissolved.
In 1988, Les reintroduced a new company and new version of the Model 68; This time with a drive to produce product in the US and an even stronger commitment to product availability, quality, and customer relationships. The company now needed a new name. While there was “handmade” and “factory-made,” it was “Benchmade” that described the quality of Les’ product. He was building an operation that made precision parts, but with hand assembly on the finished products. This was a “bench” operation, and Les wanted the name to reflect the marriage of manufactured and custom. In short, it describes Benchmade’s position in the market- even to this day.
Benchmade moved from California to a facility in Clackamas, Oregon, and began producing knives there under the name Benchmade, Inc. This was a major turning point, as the company was now located in the epicenter for knife manufacturing. Many technological advancements were now possible, and Benchmade became the first company to own and employ a high-power laser cutter, allowing for work with steels too hard to stamp. To this day, Benchmade continues to focus on innovation, customer needs, responsible business ethics, and operations to bring the highest quality products to the world’s elite. This is the story of Benchmade.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Vice President of Sales will be responsible for driving revenue growth, building high-performing and collaborative teams, and strengthening Benchmade’s presence across all markets. This strategic, hands-on executive role is ideal for a results-driven leader with a proven track record of developing and executing sales strategies that expand market reach, deepen customer engagement, and support long-term, sustainable growth.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead Sales Strategy & Growth
Shape and execute a multi-channel sales strategy that expands market presence, strengthens partnerships, and supports revenue and profitability goals.Develop High-Performing Teams
Build, mentor, and empower a strong sales organization. Drive clear expectations, accountability, talent development, and succession planning.Strengthen Market Position
Use data and insights to identify opportunities, understand competitive dynamics, and reinforce Benchmade’s premium brand position.Support Product & Channel Alignment
Partner with Product, Operations, and Executive leadership to support successful product launches, forecasting, and cross-functional planning.Champion Customer Experience
Ensure customers receive an exceptional Benchmade experience at every touchpoint, reinforcing our commitment to quality and service.Forecasting & Business Planning
Oversee revenue forecasting, budgeting, and SIOP participation to support alignment across Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain.Represent the Benchmade Brand
Serve as a company ambassador with key customers, partners, industry groups, and community stakeholders.
QUALIFICATIONS
15 years of progressive sales leadership experience, including 10 years managing managers in a consumer product environment.
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s or MBA preferred.
Proven success driving revenue growth, market expansion, and multi-channel sales strategies, outdoor/sporting goods industry experience preferred.
Experience owning P&L-influencing decisions and developing accurate forecasts.
Strong communicator and relationship-builder with executive presence and the ability to influence at all levels.
Strategic thinker who can translate vision into scalable execution.
Experience in fast-growing, mid-size companies is highly valuable.
Commitment to accountability, continuous improvement, and team-based leadership.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Office-based role within a manufacturing environment.
Ability to lift to 25 lbs. and sit for extended periods.
Travel up to 50%, as needed.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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