Outside Sales Representative Central States Group, A Cogent Company, is seeking an Outside Sales Representative to drive profitable revenue growth by developing existing customer relationships and creating new business opportunities within a defined territory. This role works closely with Inside Sales Account Managers to deliver exceptional service, ensure execution, and grow market share. We are looking for a driven, customer-focused sales professional who thrives in a fast-paced, relationship-based sales environment and takes ownership of results.
What We're Looking For:- Experience in outside sales, preferably within PVF (pipes, valves & fittings), industrial distribution, or construction-related markets
- Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to manage and grow customer accounts
- Ability to balance new business development with servicing existing customers
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and follow-up skills
- Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with internal teams
- Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
- Working knowledge of pricing, margins, and contract-based sales
- Proficiency with CRM systems, sales reporting, and expense reporting tools
We are looking for motivated individuals who want to WIN, take pride in their work, and contribute to a collaborative employee-owned environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being in front of customers, solving problems, and growing a territory through consistent execution.
Essential Responsibilities:- Develop, implement, and execute a territory sales plan that drives profitable revenue growth
- Work in conjunction with the inside sales team to grow existing accounts and identify new customers
- Make regular sales calls to customer locations to assess needs, recommend solutions, and strengthen relationships
- Provide timely and accurate quotations and ensure orders are processed at appropriate gross margins
- Communicate effectively with customers regarding order status, contract changes, and delivery expectations
- Ensure on-time delivery of product and proactively address service issues when they arise
- Work with vendors and manufacturers on pricing, availability, and order fulfillment
- Coordinate with purchasing to support appropriate inventory levels
- Manage customer issues, credits, non-conformances, and complaints promptly and professionally
- Develop account and product strategies aligned with customer needs and company objectives
- Maintain accurate records of sales calls, activities, and expenses
- Build strong internal and external relationships to support long-term customer satisfaction
- Take ownership of service recovery when issues occur to protect customer relationships
- Work Environment for This Role:
- Regular travel throughout the assigned sales territory by motor vehicle
- A combination of field-based customer visits and on-site presence at the warehouse location
- Standard office and warehouse environment
- Certifications / Licenses:
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record required
Other:
Travel required within the assigned territory
On-site attendance is required at the warehouse location when not traveling
Overtime may be required on short notice
Qualifications
Skills
Required:- Time Management Skills: AdvancedSales Negotiation: AdvancedSales Forecasting: Advanced
- Prospecting: Advanced
- Mechanical Aptitude: Intermediate
- Dependability: Advanced
- Interpersonal Skills: AdvancedEffective Written Communication: AdvancedEffective Verbal Communication: Advanced
- Account Management: Advanced
Behaviors:
Required: Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity
Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest Motivations:
Required:- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Inspired to perform well by an ability to drive new ventures within the business
- Financial: Inspired to perform well by monetary reimbursement
- Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help
Education
Required: High School or better in General Studies.
Experience
Required:
Experience developing, implementing, and executing a territory sales plan Experience using CRM systems, sales reporting, and expense reporting tools Working knowledge of pricing, margins, and contract-based sales
Preferred:
2-3 years: Experience in outside sales, preferably within Pipes, Valves, and Fittings (PVF), industrial distribution, or construction-related markets
Licenses & Certifications
Required: Driver's License
Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
