Associate Account Manager in Lenexa, Kansas at PENDLECO LLC

Position Summary

The Associate Account Manager is responsible for owning and developing assigned MRO/core accounts with a focus on activity, relationship building, and product knowledge. This role supports the sales organization by conducting regular field sales calls, expanding client engagement, growing Vendor Managed Inventories (VMIs), and building a broader understanding of the company’s product offering.

The Associate Account Manager interacts with new and existing clients to identify needs, present solutions, and support the sales process while collaborating closely with Account Managers, Business Development Managers (BDMs), Field Engineers (FEs), and Sales Support.

This role is designed for early career professionals progressing toward full account management responsibilities. College education is preferred (associate or bachelor’s degree).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

50% of Time Essential Functions

• Own and manage assigned Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO)/core accounts, ensuring consistent engagement and development.
• Maintain 15–20 account facing touchpoints per week, including calls, visits, virtual meetings, and follow ups.
• Conduct regular field sales calls to build relationships, assess client needs, and identify opportunities.
• Sell core products while actively learning and expanding knowledge of the broader product offering.

20% of Time Essential Functions

• Expand Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) programs and grow client contact bases.
• Research and profile potential sales targets to evaluate leads and support pipeline development.
• Utilize proven sales techniques to initiate contact, assess needs, and present relevant solutions.

20% of Time Essential Functions

• Prepare and deliver presentations, demonstrations, or product overviews to support client education and drive the sales process.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues in the sales process to ensure smooth transactions and positive client experiences.

10% of Time Essential Functions

• Maintain a thorough understanding of company products, services, competitor positioning, and industry standards.
• Collaborate with Account Managers, BDMs, FEs, and Sales Support to ensure alignment and client satisfaction.
• Document activities, client interactions, and opportunities in CRM systems with accuracy and timeliness.

Position Requirements or Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Education

• Associate degree or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Equivalent experience considered.

Experience

• Prior sales, client service, or account support experience preferred.
• Experience in MRO, industrial distribution, or technical sales is beneficial but not required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Skills & Competencies

• Strong communication and relationship building skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple accounts and priorities.
• Solid organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Comfort with field sales activity, client visits, and presenting information.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to evaluate client needs and identify opportunities.
• Proficiency with CRM systems, Microsoft Office, and digital communication tools.

Competencies:

• Self-Confidence
• Client Service
• Adaptability
• Initiative
• Teamwork/Collaboration

Other Requirements of the Job:

• Must be able to travel between 20% to 40%

Work Environment and/or Physical Requirements

Physical Demands:

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout office, warehouse, and client site environments.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. occasionally (sales materials, product samples, etc.).
• Ability to drive for extended periods when traveling to client locations.
• Ability to use standard office equipment (computer, phone, copier) and perform data entry tasks.

Work Environment

• Work occurs in a combination of office, warehouse, and client site environments.
• Regular travel to off site facilities, including industrial or production settings, is required.
• Some environments may require personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, hard hats, or protective footwear.
• A clean driving record is required for travelling to client locations or company facilities.
• Work may occur indoors or outdoors depending on client needs, site visits, or VMI inspections.
• Occasional exposure to noise, dust, or varying temperatures may occur during field visits.