The Solution Specialist proactively drives revenue and profit in the assigned sales segment and/or region specific to a dedicated brand and product sets. This role works directly with CDW Account Managers, sales leadership, and partners on whitespace opportunities. The Solution Specialist brings together knowledge of quotes, bid opportunities, and the market to identify deals and win them. This role is integral in identifying net new business for both CDW and the assigned brand. Key Areas of Responsibility
Be a subject matter expert on the designated partner's products, programs and go to market strategies and communicate them to CDW sales
Assist CDW sales and designated partner with field alignment and account mapping within assigned territory
Attend customer facing events and/or conference calls to communicate the value add of CDW and the partner
Facilitate trainings for assigned territory on partner's products, services and programs
Assist the partner and Product and Partner Management (PPM) contacts in creating messaging and promotions that directly align with the specific customer set that is being supported
Develop and execute to quarterly sales plan
Complete monthly scorecard identifying sales engagement, pipeline and market trends
Cultivate relationships between partner sales team, CDW Sales, & Leadership teams
Act as a liaison between CDW Sales and Product and Partner Management (PPM) to identify. opportunities for product, program and partner alignment improvements
Understand the market trends and specific needs of assigned segment and/or region as well as be able to identify and communicate wins/challenges of the business internally and externally
Understand the competitive landscape in assigned segment and/or region and how market conditions can impact CDW and the partner being supported
Have excellent knowledge of CDW service offerings and the process in which account managers attach them to client products
Proficient in CDW tools and process such as SPS, AS400, bid desk, returns etc.
Responsibilities
Maintain effective communications with all stakeholders
Provide monthly progress reports to Partner and internal stakeholders
Represent the assigned brand in meetings and speak to brand performance, category performance, program/promotion results, and current initiatives
Provide comprehensive reporting both internally and externally on brand performance, category performance, industry trends, and market share
Success Metrics:
Meet or exceed designated partner revenue expectations for assigned partner and region
Positive feedback from assigned sales channels through bi-annual surveys
Meeting or exceeding designated partner controllable margin expectations for assigned partner
Assigned regions bid pricing usage
Obtain and facilitate necessary partner and industry certifications
Travel as needed
Other special projects upon request
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Minimum Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree + 2 years sales/marketing experience, OR
* 6 years experience in sales/marketing, OR
* 4 years CDW PPM experience + 2 years experience in sales/marketing
Other Required Qualifications
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with all stakeholders, including partner, CDW, and customer executives
* Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
* Demonstrated ability to multitask
* Demonstrated financial and business acumen
* Ability to think strategically and analyze information
* Strong willingness to learn
Preferred Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree plus 4 years experience in Sales and/or Marketing
* Established relationships and 3+ years experience selling
* Previous responsibility for monthly & quarterly sales targets
* Established track record of successful quote driven sales attainment
* Outstanding phone, platform speaking and presentation ability
* Familiarity in directing and maintaining enterprise-level sales proposals and contracts
* Strong working knowledge of the assigned market with a focus on additional learning
* Relevant industry certifications