An essential part of any organization is its sales force. Whether the company is large or small, selling products or services is its ultimate source of income. A vice president of sales heads up the sales team or department is tasked with identifying sales targets and goals, and bringing together all efforts to achieve them.
VP of sales candidates are experienced leaders responsible for directing their organization’s sales team to meet and exceed goals. They work with senior leaders to determine and set those sales goals for the month, quarter, year, and so on, and create strategies to reach them. They also are essential in hiring, training, and developing new members of the sales team, as well as managing the budgets for their department.
It’s a role that requires both leadership skills and insight into market trends, and the ability to bring those both together to marshal a successful sales force.
Sample job description
[Your Company Name] needs a professional and experienced VP of sales to join our international team. As the VP of sales, it will be your duty to oversee the sales department and ensure the proper functioning of the department as well as that the department meets goals in accordance with our timelines. You must also ensure that the company performs well in sales, either matching or exceeding the desired amount. As the VP of sales, it will be your responsibility to work with the marketing department to increase ROI (return on investment) and design the proper marketing materials. You will also be responsible for running split tests and identifying where improvements and modifications can be made in sales plans in order to increase the profitability and reach of these plans. As the VP of sales, you must have a level-head and good communication skills, as well as excellent problem-solving skills. If this sounds like you, please consider applying!
Typical duties and responsibilities
- Develop strategies relating to the company’s market, products, services, and sales goals
- Work with executives to determine and execute sales plans to meet organizational needs
- Perform day-to-day oversight and management of the sales team
- Set and manage sales department budgets
- Track, analyze and present sales metrics to senior leadership
- Facilitate current client relationships and work to grow new ones
- Analyze market trends and plan sales strategies accordingly
Education and experience
This position requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. Candidates need extensive experience in sales, preferably in the employer’s industry and in a leadership position.
Required skills and qualifications
- Robust leadership abilities and an innovative, entrepreneurial attitude
- Experience in sales, customer service, or related field, preferably in a leadership role
- Familiarity with CRM platforms
- Strong analytical skills
- Knowledge of and insight into market trends, with an ability to think strategically
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- Self-motivated and driven to succeed
Preferred qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in sales and management
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Excellent written and verbal skills