Freight Forwarding Sales Account Executive

Focus•Oak Brook, IL

About The Position

The Sales Account Executive maintains and expands relationships with assigned customer accounts while meeting and exceeding sales and revenue goals. The role focuses on retaining existing client partnerships, expanding market share within assigned accounts, introducing new products and services, and developing new business relationships to increase regional brand presence. The position reports to the local Branch Manager and has no direct reports. The Account Executive sells international logistics services, including air freight, ocean freight, and customs brokerage. The role works closely with sales specialists, implementation resources, service teams, and Customer Service representatives to support client satisfaction and resolve problems. Travel within the region to branch offices, customer sites, and industry events is required as needed.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in freight forwarding sales.
Proven ability to manage client relationships, drive business growth, and close strategic supply chain opportunities.
Solid understanding of international freight forwarding, air and ocean modes, customs brokerage, and global supply chain operations.
Strong pipeline management, deal-closing, and negotiation skills.
Excellent presentation, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Self-motivated team player able to collaborate across operations, customer service, and management.

Responsibilities

Retain account volume, sales, and profitability through proactive stewardship and strategic account management.
Expand revenue within assigned accounts by cross-selling products and services, identifying additional stakeholders and buyers, and onboarding new client locations.
Promote and sell international logistics products and services, including air freight, ocean freight, and customs brokerage.
Build and manage a pipeline of new business opportunities to increase regional market share.
Lead and participate in all stages of the sales process, collaborating with technical specialists and leadership to design solutions and deliver proposals.
Direct joint customer planning and conduct regular Quarterly Business Reviews with internal stakeholders.
Manage customer satisfaction, anticipate service hurdles, and recommend process improvements.
Support customer onboarding and account transitions from the Business Development group during implementation.
Collaborate with internal teams to complete pricing, RFP responses, and bids accurately and on time.
Oversee the development, updating, and adherence of Standard Operating Procedures for assigned clients.
Travel within the region as needed to branch offices, customer sites, and industry events to achieve account objectives.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with company cost-sharing.
Health Savings Account option with direct company contributions.
Company-paid Medical Bridge Program to assist with deductible expenses.
Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
100% company-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, life, and AD&D insurance.
401(k) retirement plan with a company match.
Paid Time Off schedule that scales to 4 weeks by year 5.
Employee Assistance Program for emotional, legal, and financial support.
Employee Recognition Program.
Corporate Giveback Program with a $500 annual individual charity donation match.
Salary range of $70,000–$110,000 annually, commensurate with experience, plus commission.