What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sales Development Specialist position at HICKORY CHAIR LLC?
Position Summary
The Sales Development Specialist/Coordinator is an early career individual contributor role responsible for strategically identifying, vetting, and initiating high-value relationships with interior designers, design firms, and retail accounts. This role partners closely with the VP of Sales to build a scalable, high-quality pipeline and serves as the primary owner of top-of-funnel trade development.
This position requires strong judgment, industry knowledge, and the ability to represent the brand credibly to experienced design professionals.
Position Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a targeted prospecting strategy for interior designers, trade & retail accounts
- Independently research and qualify prospective accounts based on revenue potential, brand alignment, and long-term value
- Conduct high-quality first-contact conversations and brand introductions
- Assess designer needs and readiness prior to Sales Rep/ VP of Sales engagement
- Provide detailed prospect insights and strategic context during handoffs
- Maintain CRM data integrity and deliver pipeline reporting and insights
- Collaborate with Sales and Marketing on trade initiatives and events
Position Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required for candidates with demonstrated relevant experience
- 3-5 years of experience in sales development, trade sales, or relationship-based business development
- Direct experience working with interior designers, architects, or trade clients preferred
- Background in home furnishings, design, or luxury brands strongly preferred
- Advanced prospect qualification and relationship assessment skills
- Proficiency utilizing web-based search engines, social media, & AI tools to research and identify potential candidates
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word & Excel
- Confident, consultative communication style
- Strong CRM and pipeline management capability
- Ability to operate independently and influence senior stakeholders
Personal Attributes
- · Highly professional and brand-aligned
- · Strategic thinker with strong prioritization skills
- · Positive Attitude
Physical Requirements
The physical demands and work environment expectations described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Prolonged periods of sitting and performing repetitive tasks, including but not limited to computer and telephone usage
- Occasionally lifting/carrying objects up to 25 lbs.