Branch Sales Team Leader in La Vista, Nebraska at Thorp Controls Automation Solutions

Thorp Controls Automation Solutions (TCAS) is one of the Midwest’s top industrial automation distributors, combining deep technical expertise, responsive local support, and an unmatched inventory of Schneider Electric automation, motor control, and power products. Our Omaha branch supports industrial OEMs, system integrators, end-users, and contractors with solutions ranging from Motors, MCCs, VFDs, and PLCs to enclosures and field-level devices, such as sensors and safety scanners. We’re passionate about creating a smarter, more connected industrial world, and we’re seeking a leader who shares our vision.

Position Summary

The Branch Sales Team Leader (BSTL) is responsible for the overall performance, leadership, and strategic direction of the Omaha and Sabetha branches. This role's primary functions include owning sales growth, customer development, vendor relationships, and operational execution across the territory. The BSTL leads a team of account managers and inside/operations staff while maintaining direct involvement in key accounts, vendor alignment, and branch-level decision making. Most travel will be within the territory and self-managed.

Key Responsibilities

1. Sales Leadership & Growth

• Own branch revenue, gross profit, and booking performance
• Develop and execute territory sales strategy, including target accounts and market focus areas
• Drive new customer acquisition and expansion of existing accounts (including dormant accounts)
• Lead pipeline development, forecasting, and accountability for results
• Participate in joint sales calls, vendor engagements, and key customer meetings

2. Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop outside sales, inside sales, and support staff
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and performance management
• Recruit, hire, and onboard talent
• Coordinate resources across branches and collaborate with other BSTLs

3. Customer & Market Ownership

• Maintain relationships with key accounts and strategic customers
• Ensure high levels of customer service, responsiveness, and order execution
• Drive consistent market coverage and in-person customer engagement
• Identify market trends, competitive threats, and growth opportunities

4. Vendor & Strategic Alignment

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers (Schneider, Phoenix Contact, Hoffman, SICK, etc.)
• Align branch execution with vendor programs, rebate initiatives, and strategic priorities
• Participate in vendor strategy sessions and joint planning meetings
• Ensure effective communication and execution of vendor expectations at the branch level

5. Operations & Branch Management

• Oversee day-to-day branch operations including inventory, warehouse, and order fulfillment
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of quotes and orders to support customer satisfaction
• Manage inventory levels, stock strategy, and working capital efficiency
• Coordinate logistics across Omaha and Sabetha to optimize service levels

6. Financial Accountability

• Manage branch P&L performance, including expenses, margins, and inventory investment
• Monitor KPIs such as sales growth, gross profit, bookings, backlog, and customer count
• Utilize CRM and reporting tools to guide decision-making and performance tracking

7. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with technical, operations, and vendor business teams
• Support company-wide initiatives, including digital strategy, pricing, and product focus
• Share best practices across territories and contribute to overall company growth

Qualifications

• 5–10+ years in industrial distribution, automation, or related sales leadership role
• Proven ability to lead teams and drive sales growth
• Strong understanding of industrial automation products and vendor ecosystems
• Experience managing P&L or branch-level financial performance preferred
• Demonstrated ability to balance sales leadership with operational execution

Success Profile

• Highly accountable, ownership mindset (runs the business like their own)
• Strong communicator capable of aligning teams, vendors, and leadership
• Comfortable operating both strategically and tactically
• Customer-first mentality with urgency around execution
• Able to navigate ambiguity and drive results across multiple responsibilities

Territory Scope

• Primary responsibility: Omaha, NE – Preferred Primary Office
• Additional oversight: Sabetha, KS
• Sales territory includes travel within a day’s drive.
• Regional collaboration across Northern and Central territories