Account Manager - Outside Sales

About the role

The Account Manager-Outside Sales is responsible for driving new business growth while developing long-term client partnerships across AO Swag’s core markets. This role combines strategic sales, account development, and consultative relationship management to help clients build impactful branded merchandise and online store programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Possess and generate leads through networking, referrals, outbound outreach, industry events, and strategic business development efforts.
• Build relationships with prospective clients and decision-makers to understand their branded merchandise, online store, and promotional product needs.
• Lead the full sales cycle from initial outreach through discovery, proposal development, presentations, negotiations, and contract execution.
• Prepare and respond to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and customized sales presentations.
• Present AO Swag’s capabilities, online store solutions, fulfillment services, and branded merchandise programs to prospective clients.
• Collaborate with internal teams during the onboarding process to ensure a smooth and successful transition for newly acquired clients.
• Maintain accurate pipeline management, forecasting, and sales activity tracking within CRM systems.
• Represent AO Swag at networking events, trade shows, and industry functions as needed.
• Stay informed on industry trends, promotional product solutions, branded apparel programs, decoration methods, and e-commerce/store technology to effectively position AO Swag in the marketplace.
• Consistently meet or exceed sales activity metrics, new business goals, and revenue targets.

What We're Looking For

• 3–5 years of experience in sales, account management, business development, or client relationship management.
• Industry experience in promotional products, branded merchandise, apparel decoration, print, fulfillment, e-commerce/store solutions, marketing services, or related fields strongly preferred.
• Experience working with corporate clients, schools, universities, or multi-location organizations is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent professional experience considered in lieu of degree.
• Proven ability to prospect, develop, and close new business opportunities.
• Strong consultative selling and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Strong business acumen and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM platforms.
• Ability to travel as needed based on client and business needs.