Account Executive- Public Sector (Higher Education, State/Local Government, Non-Profit)

iSpace Environments•Minneapolis, MN

10d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

An Account Executive – Public Sector acts as a business manager by networking, identifying, and developing new clients across public sector verticals, including higher education, state/local government, and non-profit organizations in the Minnesota market. The Account Executive also expands iSPACE’s partnerships by strengthening existing relationships and developing new ones. This role requires a keen understanding of navigating public sector purchasing cycles and leveraging the full range of group purchasing contracts available to create access, strengthen competitive positioning, and support profitable growth. This position also requires hands-on sales execution to drive new and existing business, end-to-end management of furniture projects and the ability to build strong long-term client relationships. Must be proactive, goal-oriented, and energized by outside sales, client development, and industry networking.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from four-year College or university in business or marketing; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
5+ years demonstrated success in a deadline driven, customer-experience based business model requiring strong project management skills.
Successful outside sales experience selling into public sector or comparable complex, relationship-driven vertical markets.
Must have the ability to make sales presentations to small and large sized groups.
Strong analytical, time management, problem solving, prioritization and planning skills.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills are essential along with computer skills, including spreadsheets, presentation, and word processing programs.
5+ years' experience in a customer-facing sales role and project management experience required.
Minimum of 5 years office furniture or design experience.
Highly proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Software proficiency - ability to become proficient in others as needed, including Khameleon (ERP), HubSpot (CRM), CAP2020 / Worksheet (Specifications)
Must have proven ability to drive growth and profitability, guide and influence teams, and deliver results across complex projects.
Strong customer focus with solution orientation.
Must possess strong attention to detail, organization, and time management skills.
Strong, effective communication with coworkers and clients at various levels.
Desire and ability to succeed in a fast-paced, results driven environment.
Must be flexible and adept with multi-tasking and changing priorities.
Ability to manage multiple projects and delegate to other team members.
Must have proven ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally and meet deadlines.
Willingness and ability to work beyond a normal work schedule during peak periods to ensure client needs are met.

Nice To Haves

Sales experience within the contract office furniture industry, preferably in the higher education and State/Local Government verticals.
This role requires a strong understanding of public sector purchasing cycles, group purchasing contracts, cooperative purchasing agreements, and related procurement vehicles.
Workplace trends and market dynamics relevant to public sector environments, including higher education, state/local government, and non-profit organizations.
Prior commercial furniture experience desired, including hands-on knowledge of contract furniture lines, proposal creation, pricing structure, and discounting application.

Responsibilities

Develop new business and expand existing relationships across higher education, state/local government, and non-profit organizations by identifying opportunities, engaging key stakeholders, and advancing strategic public sector accounts.
Lead the sales process from prospecting through close, coordinating proposals, pricing, client presentations, and project handoffs to an aligned project team (Design, Project Coordinator, Project Manager) to support a strong client experience.
Partner with internal furniture, architectural products, and A/V teams to deliver cohesive solutions and support successful project outcomes.
Navigate public sector purchasing requirements, cooperative contracts, RFPs, bids, and proposal processes to support compliant, competitive, and profitable opportunities.
Maintain consistent client communication, support account planning, and identify opportunities to deepen engagement with public sector clients and influencers.
Build and maintain a qualified public sector pipeline aligned to annual revenue, gross margin, and new business development goals.
Meet or exceed assigned sales and profitability targets across higher education, state/local government, and non-profit verticals.
Maintain accurate CRM, pipeline, forecasting, and account data to support leadership visibility and sales planning.
Advance strategic public sector relationships, funding-cycle awareness, and RFP/bid strategies that support iSPACE’s growth objectives.
Serve as a Steward of iSpace Core Values and Brand