Sales & Marketing Coordinator at Creeden & Associates, Inc – Bensenville, Illinois

About the Role

Location

Bensenville, IL

Role Type

Full-Time, Permanent

Department

Account Teams (Ace, Do It Best & True Value, Orgill)

Work Environment

Hybrid (3 days in office, 2 days remote)

Role Purpose

The Account Coordinator serves as the foundational support position within the account management team. This entry-level role exists to ensure the smooth operation of the sales and account processes by handling essential administrative, operational, and data-related tasks. The Account Coordinator enables the account team to focus on strategic and client-facing activities by managing critical behind-the-scenes work such as database maintenance, sales reporting, marketing material preparation, and trade show support.

This role is designed to provide learning and growth opportunities for individuals new to the industry, helping them develop a strong understanding of account management fundamentals and the workflows that drive successful sales operations.

Main Responsibilities

Sales Support

• Develop sales and marketing materials, including sell sheets and promotional content.
• Generate and analyze sales reports to identify trends and opportunities.
• Utilize JDA for electronic planogram planning and maintenance.
• Monitor store performance for rebate eligibility and prevent double dips.
• Review and approve store rebates to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Manage split and canceled order processes in coordination with internal teams.

Database Maintenance

• Maintain the database to ensure product and pricing accuracy, including adding new items, updating pricing, removing discontinued products, and managing assortments and test orders.
• Ensure data integrity and collaborate with internal teams to support account operations.

Vendor Information Management

• Maintain up-to-date manufacturer and vendor information, including terms, account logins, and contact details.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure information supports sales and account strategies.

Trade Show Support

• Assist in trade show preparation by managing show orders, printing marketing materials, organizing booth materials, and creating show binders.
• Coordinate trade show logistics, including booth setup and teardown and virtual booth creation.
• Represent Creeden and manufacturer partners at trade shows by interacting with attendees and manufacturers, presenting sales materials, showcasing products, and maximizing visibility and sales opportunities.

Meetings and Collaboration

• Attend and actively participate in manufacturer and sales team meetings to gather updates, share insights, and provide support as needed.

Special Projects

• Coordinate call projects and develop training materials for processes and onboarding.
• Support planogram (POG) setup and organize warehouse samples.
• Assist with store resets and generate reports such as purchase order projections, wholesale summaries, competitor matrices, and sales analyses.
• Contribute to identifying opportunities and supporting strategic initiatives for account growth.

Travel Requirements

This role requires periodic travel (~10-20%) to support key business activities. Travel will include attending up to six trade shows per year (most held out of state), visiting customer headquarters or warehouse locations, meeting with manufacturers or vendor partners at their offices, and traveling to hardware stores to assist with store resets or merchandising projects. Travel frequency varies by season and business need.

About the Team

Function

The Account Teams at Creeden are central to driving sales growth and delivering strategic plans for our manufacturers. Acting as the bridge between manufacturers and customers, the team collaborates closely with both to develop and execute strategies that meet business objectives and maximize account performance. They manage account operations, support promotional programs, coordinate trade shows, and maintain accurate data, all while ensuring alignment between manufacturers, customers, and internal teams. By combining strategic planning with hands-on execution, the Account Teams strengthen relationships, create value for all stakeholders, and drive measurable results for both manufacturers and Creeden.

You Will Report To

Vice President of Sales

Direct Reports

N/A

Key Relationships

Account Team Headquarter Representatives

Account Managers

Account Specialists

Account Coordinators

Customer Service Manager

Customer Service Representatives

Manufacturer/Vendor Representatives

Co-Op Customer Representatives

Required Competencies

Customer-Centric Mindset

Dedicated to understanding customer needs and delivering exceptional service and solutions.

Continuous Improvement

Embraces a mindset of growth and learning; always looking for ways to enhance personal performance, results, and service delivery.

Open to coaching, feedback, and change, with a strong desire to improve both process and outcomes for account teams, customers, and manufacturers.

Professionalism & Integrity

Projects a polished, professional image aligned with Creeden's values and upholds high ethical standards and business integrity at all times.

Sales & Communication Skills

Collaborates effectively with internal teams, manufacturers, and customers, and supports the sales process through reporting, marketing, and operational execution.

Adaptability & Initiative

Responds effectively to changing priorities, manages multiple tasks, and takes proactive steps to support the team independently

Project and Time Management

Ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and handle multiple projects at once.

Dependability and Initiative

Reliability in completing tasks accurately and on time. Shows initiative by supporting the team and taking ownership of assigned responsibilities.

Collaboration and Teamwork

Works effectively as part of a team, supporting Account Team Members, and other internal departments. Comfortable assisting multiple team members and handling a variety of tasks simultaneously.

Administrative and Operational Skills

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail to manage sales reports, databases, and account operations accurately.

Ability to create and manage marketing materials, sell sheets, and other promotional content.

Proficiency in basic office software (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with database management systems.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Experience: Entry-level role; internships or prior experience in administrative support, customer service, sales support, or account management is a plus.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with database management systems; experience with sales or planogram software is a plus.

Industry Knowledge: Basic understanding of sales processes, retail operations, or the hardware industry is a plus but not required.

About Creeden

For over 45 years, Creeden has been one of the leading sales & marketing firms in the Home Improvement Industry proudly representing some of the most powerful brands with the world’s largest retail, industrial and e-commerce customers. Creeden provides exceptional value in all sales & marketing activities to grow our manufacturer & retail partner’s business through field sales, trade show support, headquarter programs and relationship management.

www.creeden.com

E-Verify

Creeden & Associates participates in E-Verify to confirm work authorization.

For more information about E-Verify, please visit www.e-verify.gov.