The National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) is seeking an experienced sales leader to represent our organization in the Minnesota region. This individual will have direct responsibility for generating new partnerships, retaining existing and lapsed partnerships, growing enrollment, and enlarging our educational footprint by partnering with educators and school districts throughout the region. This individual will also serve as our local representative for regional Inductees and engage with government and corporate leaders. Our best RPMs are creative challenge solvers who are organized, strategic, and thrive in an autonomous setting.

Eligible candidates for this position must reside in Minnesota.

Key Responsibilities:

Regional Program Management:

• Collaborate with Sales Leadership to develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy aligned with company objectives and market trends.
• Identify emerging opportunities, competitive threats, and industry trends.
• Expand the reach and impact of educational programs while managing and supporting the existing customer base.
• Generate, cultivate, and follow up on leads via phone, email, and in-person visits.
• Drive and increase sales in the region; identify opportunities for expansion within the educational marketplace, and build partnerships at the regional and state level.
• Communicate NIHF’s mission and value to a broad audience, delivering messaging that connects with the target audience.
• Train and motivate program staff to drive enrollment and ensure delivery of a first-rate experience, leaving B2B, B2B2C, and B2C customers completely satisfied with their experience.
• Assist in marketing efforts; attend trade shows to promote programs.
• Manage administrative logistics of establishing and running programs, inclusive of marketing, training, and distribution of program materials.
• Manage a regional budget.

Business Development and Relationship Management:

• Cultivate strong relationships with external stakeholders, including educational institutions, administrators, and decision-makers.

• Serve as a liaison when needed to assist in government relations efforts in Minnesota.

• Establish and maintain positive relationships with regionally based National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees.

• Represent NIHF at industry events, trade shows, and meetings to promote products and build brand presence.

• Industry Expertise:

  • Stay current with industry trends and competitive landscape to inform regional sales strategies.
  • Deep understanding of the region’s educational market and its unique challenges.
  • General knowledge of local and state education policy is required.

Skills and Competencies:

• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficient in CRM tools (e.g., Salesforce) and data-driven decision-making.
• Knowledge and experience working with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to balance short-term goals with long-term vision.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Requires regular, reliable attendance.
• Ability to communicate effectively via email, chat, phone, and in-person meetings.

Credentials and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive, successful K-12 school district experience in sales, with a strong focus on educational products and solutions.
• Direct or support role experience working in geographic territory sales.
• Experience managing, motivating, and mentoring contracted staff.
• Must be remotely located in the Minnesota region for this position.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Revenue growth and attainment of sales targets.
• Market share expansion within target segments.
• Customer retention and satisfaction rates.
• Team engagement and productivity metrics.

Travel Requirements:

• This role requires 15%-20% travel annually, primarily within the assigned region(s), with some out-of-region travel as needed, including travel to NIHF Headquarters. Travel schedules will vary and may include same-day and overnight trips based on business needs.

Why Join the National Inventors Hall of Fame?

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Enjoy top-tier medical, dental, vision, and insurance plans, along with flexible spending accounts to help pay for any out-of-pocket medical expenses.
• Company-Paid Benefits: NIHF contributes 100% to provide life and disability coverages.
• Secure Your Future: Benefit from our 401(k) plan with up to a 4% employer match and 100% vesting upon initial contribution, ensuring your financial stability and growth.
• Generous Time Off: Take advantage of paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end closure from December 24th through January 1st to recharge.
• Additional Support: Access Critical Illness, Hospital, and Accident Supplemental Income plans for extra peace of mind.
• Pet-Friendly Perks: Protect your furry friends with our pet insurance plans.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Enjoy alternate workday scheduling after 90 days, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Thriving Work Environment: Be part of a great team environment with ample opportunities for growth and a culture that prioritizes professional development.