Account Executive - Great Lakes area

The Account Executive at Symplicity is primarily responsible for growing business with existing clients in the higher education sector. Key responsibilities include developing a territory plan, crafting sales strategies, nurturing client relationships, and ensuring client satisfaction. The AE drives market activities, identifies sales opportunities, and addresses client needs, all while effectively communicating Symplicity’s extensive product offerings.

To qualify for the Account Executive position at Symplicity, candidates should possess 3-5 years of relevant software sales experience, specifically in the higher education space. A proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales quotas, familiarity with CRM systems, and strong business acumen are essential. Additionally, candidates should have a network of existing clients and partners in higher education.

The Account Executive role at Symplicity requires approximately 50% travel, which equates to 2-3 days of travel for two trips each month. This travel is vital for meeting and building relationships with clients in the Great Lakes region, further enhancing Symplicity’s impact in the higher education sector.

As an Account Executive at Symplicity, you'll have numerous opportunities for career advancement. With a focus on client satisfaction and a commitment to driving business solutions, successful candidates can progress into senior sales roles or management positions within the organization. The supportive environment at Symplicity encourages professional growth, mentorship, and continuous learning.

Working as an Account Executive at Symplicity is appealing due to the company’s market leadership in employability solutions and commitment to diversity. With a mission to bridge the skills gap and support students worldwide, employees feel a strong sense of purpose. The collaborative work culture, focus on client success, and innovative environment make Symplicity a great place for driven sales professionals in the higher education sector.

In my experience, building relationships with higher-education clients involves understanding their unique challenges and objectives. I focus on active listening, demonstrating empathy, and offering tailored solutions that fit their needs. Regular follow-ups, check-ins, and being a reliable resource strengthen the partnership and foster trust.

To effectively manage my territory, I start by analyzing various factors like potential revenue, existing relationships, and specific client needs. I create a detailed territory plan that outlines targeted accounts, sales strategies, and key activities, allowing me to focus my efforts where they will yield the best results.

In my previous role, I exceeded my sales quota by 30% through a combination of targeted outreach and leveraging existing client relationships. I identified new opportunities within current accounts and proposed additional solutions that met their evolving needs, ultimately resulting in increased sales and client satisfaction.

I handle objections by first ensuring I understand the client’s concerns thoroughly. I approach objections with empathy and transparency, addressing the issue directly and providing relevant evidence or case studies that demonstrate how our solutions can resolve their pain points effectively.

I consistently use a CRM system to track my sales activities, logging interactions, follow-ups, and insights from each meeting. This organized method enables me to manage my pipeline effectively, identify opportunities for improvement, and stay on track to meet my sales goals.

Staying informed on the higher education landscape is crucial for an Account Executive. I regularly read industry publications, follow relevant news outlets, and engage with professional networks. Attending conferences and webinars also helps me stay updated on emerging trends and challenges facing higher education institutions.

In a previous role, a client experienced technical difficulties with our product that affected their operations. I promptly engaged with my support team, coordinated a solution, and ensured ongoing communication with the client throughout the process. This proactive approach not only resolved their issues but also reinforced their trust in our ability to support them.

The key to a successful sales pitch lies in understanding the client's needs and framing the product as a solution to their challenges. Engaging storytelling, showcasing success stories, and providing data-driven insights can effectively capture the client's attention and enhance their interest in our offerings.

I view client feedback as invaluable information that informs my sales approach. After each interaction, I take time to analyze their suggestions and concerns, integrating this feedback into my strategy to better align my offerings with their needs and enhance overall customer satisfaction.

My motivation as an Account Executive stems from the impact we have on students’ futures and the role we play in bridging the skills gap. Knowing that my work contributes to meaningful outcomes for graduates and higher education institutions inspires me to strive for excellence and drive success.