Sales Manager (Avision-Metro Detroit (Southeast MI) at Forward Solutions

We are looking for a Sales Manager to work in our premier US manufacturing representative group Avision.  

Must be in the Metro Detroit (Southeast MI) Territory.  

Avision is a manufacturer's representative company with advanced and seasoned professional sales, customer support, marketing and inside sales teams. Avision has a local focus that is national in scope, catering to world-class manufacturers in the janitorial and foodservice disposable industries.  

The Position:

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Sales Manager to lead and grow sales efforts within a defined geographic region. This role is responsible not only for driving sales performance and expanding market share, but also for managing distributor relationships, supporting internal teams, and leading cross-functional initiatives.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader who combines business acumen, technical knowledge, and team management experience to build a high-performance sales culture.

Essential Responsibilities: 

Sales Strategy & Execution

• Own and drive the sales strategy for your assigned territory to meet or exceed revenue and margin goals.
• Identify market opportunities and develop targeted plans to grow share with both end-users and distributors.
• Monitor competitive activity and adjust sales tactics accordingly.

Customer & End-User Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers at end-user accounts.
• Serve as a consultative expert, ensuring proper product application and customer satisfaction.
• Conduct regular business reviews and product training with major accounts.

Distributor Channel Management

• Manage and develop relationships with regional distributor partners.
• Align distributor sales efforts with manufacturer objectives and Avision’s growth plans.
• Evaluate distributor performance and implement improvement plans where needed.

Team Leadership & Development

• Provide daily coaching, support, and performance management to direct reports and junior sales team members.
• Set clear goals and KPIs; conduct regular 1:1s, team meetings, and performance reviews.
• Support recruiting, onboarding, and training efforts for new sales staff in the region.

Operational & Sales Management

• Track and report on sales activity, pipeline development, and forecasts using CRM and internal systems.
• Analyze territory performance metrics to refine strategy and improve execution.
• Manage budgets related to travel, customer events, and sales programs.

Marketing & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with marketing to execute regional campaigns and support product launches.
• Provide market insights and competitive intelligence to guide product positioning and innovation.
• Coordinate with inside sales, customer service, and operations teams to ensure a seamless customer experience.

Leadership Presence

• Represent Avision at industry events, trade shows, and customer meetings.
• Uphold company values and act as a brand ambassador in the field.
• Lead by example to foster a results-driven, collaborative, and accountable sales culture.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years of B2B sales experience, with 2+ years in a sales management or team leadership role.
• Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and developing high-performing teams.
• Strong understanding of distribution channels, end-user engagement, and territory planning.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.
• Experience with CRM tools and data-driven sales management.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Company vehicle or travel stipend.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.

Join a company where your leadership and market insight will make a measurable impact. Apply now and help shape the future of our territory sales strategy.