Strategic Partnership Manager

Kimball International, Inc.•Jackson, TN

35d

About The Position

The Strategic Partnership Manager will lead efforts to establish and strengthen relationships with targeted Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) to drive growth for Kimball International. This role will collaborate closely with Sales leadership to activate business plans and maximize opportunities with identified organizations-Vizient, HealthTrust, Premier, and Omnia-with potential to expand to additional GPOs. The Strategic Partner Manager will report to the Director, Dealer Development. This is a market-based role and will reside in Nashville, Charlotte, or Dallas.

Requirements

Ability to develop positive relationships with dealers, end users, market influencers and colleagues
Strong negotiation skills
Proven and effective team-player
Ability to interact with a diverse group of people (customers, field sales, key leaders, peers, market influencers, etc.)
Self-motivated
Mature, proven relationship builder
Demonstrated high integrity in all business interactions
Exceptional organizational skills
Professional in appearance, communication, and conducting business
Fosters an environment of trust and respect with peers, leaders, and employees
Demonstrates a sense of urgency through actions and decisions
Develop and execute strategies to achieve business objectives
Proficient in financial decision making and problem solving
Must be proficient in Microsoft applications
Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills
Active listening skills
Need to be comfortable communicating with key leaders of a company.
Presentation skills will be important
Be a leader by example
Creates an environment that encourages others to collaborate.
Excellent relationship management skills
Excellent decision-making skills
Ability to lead change and handle multiple projects at once
Understanding of Office Furniture market and influencers within the market
Consultative Sales approach
Understanding of dealer business, dealer role and capabilities
Strong collaboration skills
Understanding the needs of end user
Technical product knowledge
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Competitive knowledge (products, people, position)
Proven record of closing business
Ability to handle the travel associated with the position

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the Contract Furniture Industry preferred
Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing or related area of emphasis preferred
Some sales experience preferred
Demonstrated track record and career progression

Responsibilities

Direct the development and execution of annual business plans and assist with implementing strategically and tactically to exceed sales goals.
Conduct performance sessions with targeted partners, with appropriate monthly & quarterly touchpoints.
Frequent strategic collaboration with Sales Directors.
Foster partnership and mutually beneficial relationships with identified organizations.
Manage financial resources within the area consistent with forecasting and budgeting process and plans.
Facilitate, in partnership with Sales Leadership team, the dealer quota process for targeted partners and act as a key resource to drive toward achievement.
Utilize data and analytics to develop short and long-term plans with targeted partners to monitor performance and to plan and address variances.
Develop relationships with key industry influencers through involvement in industry organizations and events, in partnership with targeted partners.
Collaborate across the organization to close business for Kimball International, utilizing the various tools available, while maintaining a strong knowledge of competitive data to position Kimball International's brands for best advantage.
Ensure the education on the value and benefits of the Workplace +Health brands and solutions with influencers throughout the marketplaces.