Position Summary: Identify and create new business opportunities within the upholstery fabric category by leveraging Culp’s 50+ years’ experience, combined with the company’s emerging marketing strategies. Build partnerships with key retailers and manufacturers that turn into profitable revenue streams. Outline selling strategies and new product messages for Culp’s sales team and customers. Partner with Marketing, Design, and operational teams to meet customer needs and identify areas for innovation. This position plays a key role in enhancing Culp’s market share and leadership position in the industry.
Brand Ambassador: As the Brand Ambassador and working with SVP of Sales, Design & Marketing, strengthen the brand presence of LiveSmart with our retail partners through agreements to feature in store signage, product labeling, and other advertising initiatives. For major retailers, create and deliver presentations to merchandising teams and associates on the attributes of LiveSmart and other Culp products. Identify opportunities for industry engagement (events, partnerships, sponsorships with our customers). Provide input and feedback to our Marketing Agency and senior leadership regarding brand standards and excellence in our visual identity.
Business Development: Research, prospect and qualify new accounts. This will require research to understand the nuances of the industry – rising players, new brands to the market, new relationships between manufacturers and retailers – “who” specifies the fabric can be a moving target.
New Product Introduction: Alongside Marketing, create content for sell-in materials and presentations for new lines (special yarns and treatments that provide benefits re: hypo-allergenic, sustainability, etc.) Identify target customers (existing and new), and train Culp design consultants to understand new offerings and the best ways to sell.
Position responsibilities:
- Developing and executing business strategies to drive growth and revenue.
- Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities through market research and analysis.
- Maintain & enhance customer intimacy through educational training, enquiry follow-up, branding service and supply chain support & management
- Creating and managing partnerships to expand the company’s reach and offerings.
- Collaborating with sales, marketing, and product development teams to ensure alignment on growth and expansion efforts.
- Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, and industry leaders.
- Monitoring and analyzing market trends and competition to inform business decisions.
- Training the sales team on new products and marketing initiatives.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Proven experience in sales within the textile or adjacent industries.
- Strong communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Familiarity with sales techniques and products available to sell.
- Persuasive and goal-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.
- High level of resilience and ability to handle rejection.
Education requirements:
- BA/BS in Business, Marketing or a related field
- 7+ years of proven industry experience
Travel Requirements:
- Flexible work arrangement with blend of in-office and work from home based on business needs. Regular Travel required to maximize sales and foster strong customer relationship.