2026 Sales Leadership Development Program - Automotive
Sherwin-Williams is seeking motivated individuals with an interest in sales, customer service, and leading a successful team to join our Leadership Development Program (“LDP”). This eight-week program offers hands-on experience in an Automotive Branch, providing successful candidates with a comprehensive learning experience through practical training.
About the role
The LDP is designed to begin in 2026 and will place participants in an Automotive Branch within the South Region. During the program, participants will gain insight into sales, customer service, finance, and strategic business planning while building cross-functional partnerships with teams in Marketing, Operations, and Research & Development. Upon successful completion, participants will progress into an available Assistant Branch Manager position. Relocation may be required for both the training period and subsequent placement.
Eligible training and placement locations include:
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Georgia
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Louisiana
- Florida
Job duties involve customer interaction (including minors), handling cash and payments, accessing electronic equipment, managing personal information, and safeguarding store merchandise and assets. A criminal history review is required for employment.
Responsibilities
- Support Branch Managers in essential branch operations.
- Develop branch market plans based on market conditions, branch mission, and financial objectives.
- Implement business strategies to increase sales and optimize profitability.
- Build product knowledge to ensure effective customer recommendations.
- Provide excellent customer service and ensure accurate order and transaction documentation.
- Maintain branch inventory levels and ensure compliance with policies, including safety, loss prevention, and security.
- Support employee training, development, performance management, and corrective action.
- Resolve customer and employee complaints.
- Assist in determining staffing needs and developing work schedules.
- Analyze management and financial reports, including Profit & Loss (P&L) financial ratios.
- Assist in making deliveries as needed.
Requirements
- Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without needing sponsorship for an employment work visa now or in the future.
- Must have a valid, unrestricted Driver’s License.
- Must be able, with or without reasonable accommodation, to retrieve material from shelves and floor stacks and lift and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 70 lbs. on occasion.
- Must have at least a bachelor's degree by the start of the development program.
- Must be willing to relocate for this position if required.
Qualifications
- Preferred: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Sales, Marketing, Management, Business, Operations, or Supply Chain.
- Preferred: At least one (1) year of experience in retail, sales, or customer service.
- Preferred: Experience working in a team-oriented setting (e.g., work experience, extracurricular activities, military service).
- Preferred: At least one (1) year of experience in a leadership role, supervising others, or leading teams.
About Sherwin-Williams
At Sherwin-Williams, our purpose is to inspire and improve the world by coloring and protecting what matters. Our paints, coatings, and innovative solutions enhance and strengthen spaces. We invest in our employees through:
- Life: Rewards, benefits, and flexibility to support health and well-being.
- Career: Opportunities to learn, develop new skills, and grow contributions.
- Connection: An inclusive team and commitment to communities.
World-class benefits are designed to support employees and their families in retirement, health care, total well-being, and daily commutes. For more details, visit myswbenefits.com (select “Candidates” for eligibility information).