Sales, Business Development

About Empire & Co.

Empire & Co. is a leader in delivering innovative workplace solutions nationwide. With over 80 years of industry experience and more than 565 full-time employees, we partner with leading architects, designers, brokers, craftsmen, and manufacturers to create high-performing, cost-effective environments that solve business challenges and activate brands.

As the leading Steelcase dealer in the United States, we support a network of more than 500 manufacturers and deliver solutions that transform the way people work.

Overview

Empire & Co. is seeking a Sales & Business Development Representative to join our growing team. This hybrid position is based out of our Orlando, Florida office and will focus on developing new business opportunities, strengthening client partnerships, and driving growth within the market.

The function of this position is to manage client expectations, provide quality-based products, and knowledge-based solutions. This position will be responsible for increasing market share and profitability by cultivating client trust through daily account oversight.

Sales:

• Update client on new product offerings and market trends.

• Exercise value engineering when interacting with client.

• Work with Marketing Department to provide updated materials and information to client.

• Seek out opportunities for ancillary products and additional services to offer up

• Provide prompt and courteous response to client inquiries, needs, requests, etc.

• Avail him/herself to client for face-to-face meetings over general phone and email communication

• Share Empire story and promote depth and breadth of resources he/she provides

• Promote the unique capabilities, knowledge, and expertise he/she possesses to client

• Remain cognizant and prepared for any anticipated client needs

• Possess an understanding of the competition for proper product positioning

• Negotiate with vendors additional discounting then forward to management for increased profitability

• Continually practice strategic social relationship building

• Carry out forecasting and strategic account plan

Sales process:

• Act as the "quarterback" throughout the sales process by facilitating and managing all steps involved

• Coordinate necessary actions as they are carried by the Account Coordinator or Project Manager

• Monitor all reports (waiting, unbilled or aging)

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum 3 years of sales, business development, account management, or related experience preferred.
• Experience within commercial interiors, construction, contract furniture, or a related industry strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to develop new business and grow existing client relationships.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and construction documents.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Highly motivated, persistent, and skilled negotiator.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong relationship-building and client service skills.
• Comfortable presenting to architects, designers, contractors, and end users.
• Willingness to travel throughout Florida as needed to support clients and project opportunities.