Sales · Part-time · IL, United States
OUR MISSION & OUR TEAM
Opportunity Knocks exists to support people with different abilities as they live, work, learn, grow and connect within their community. We believe in a dynamic, person-centered and community-based approach to programming that engages the voice of all Warriors.
We believe in a dynamic, person-centered workforce that includes the voices of all varieties of humans. We strive to build our team with that ideal in mind. Everyone has something to offer this mission. Come bring what you have.
ABOUT KNOCKOUT ENTERPRISE
OK currently offers a variety of evolving program options. Our vocational focus is on Knockout Enterprise. Our enterprise thrives in a blended work environment where people of all abilities work together to run a successful food-based business that features three connected initiatives: the Knockout Farm, Knockout Pickles, and the Knockout Kitchen.
POSITION TITLE
SALES & MARKETING SPECIALIST
DIRECT SUPERVISOR: President/Chief Administrative Officer
JOB PURPOSE
The Sales and Marketing Specialist will drive growth by executing sales strategies, cultivating key relationships, and promoting the Knockout brand. This role focuses on expanding retail and restaurant markets, supporting product development, and integrating community engagement, all while aligning with Opportunity Knocks' mission of inclusivity and vocational empowerment.
EXPECTATIONS
Operate within the guidelines of this job description
Understanding and commitment to the organization’s mission, goals, and philosophies
Adhere to the standards and expectations set forth in the employee handbook
Ability to commit to a consistent schedule of 10-15 hours per week - mostly in-person, some remote
Commitment, understanding and passion for organization’s mission
QUALIFICATIONS
Must possess excellent written & verbal communication skills, negotiation skills a plus.
Requires continual attention to detail, establishing priorities and meeting deadlines, ability to work well under pressure, and ability to manage multiple tasks and demands.
Proven experience in sales, preferably in the food or consumer goods industry, with a strong understanding of the retail and restaurant markets.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Passion for supporting inclusive workplaces and community-based initiatives.
Proficiency in customer relationship management
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
PRIMARY
Sales Strategy and Execution:
Implement (and improvise) a comprehensive sales strategy to achieve sales targets for packaged goods in both retail and restaurant markets, as well as executing strategy for emerging and re-emerging markets.
Identify and cultivate new business opportunities through lead generation, networking, and outreach, product development and placement.
Maintain and update a prospect list, tracking progress and following up on leads.
Secure new sales agreements, representing terms and conditions consistent with enterprise strategy.
Relationship Management:
Build and maintain strong relationships with key retail buyers, distributors, and restaurant clients.
Provide exceptional customer service, ensuring quality, monitoring client satisfaction and developing long-term partnerships.
Act as the main point of contact for customer inquiries, feedback, and support.
Marketing and Brand Promotion:
Collaborate with the marketing team to create and execute marketing campaigns that promote the Knockout brand with promotional materials and product presentations tailored to different market segments.
Participate in developing presence and function on platforms that will broaden our access to customers e.g. catering marketplace, product shipping, etc.
Represent Knockout Products at in-store demos, trade shows, events, and other promotional activities.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
Develop and engage opportunities to include Warriors at Work in various sales and marketing activities - cultivate NEW vocational exposures for Warriors.
Work closely with the Knockout Enterprise team to align sales efforts with overall business goals.
Provide input and feedback to the product development team based on client needs and market demand.
Contribute to a positive, inclusive work environment that reflects the values and mission of Opportunity Knocks.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
PERIODIC
Product Development Support:
Collaborate with the Knockout Kitchen and Knockout Farm teams to advance already-recognized product development opportunities
Collaborate with the Knockout Kitchen and Knockout Farm teams to identify opportunities for new product development.
Conduct market research to understand trends and consumer preferences, ensuring new products align with our mission and community needs.
Assist in the planning and execution of product launches, including promotional activities and sales strategies.
Market Research and Analysis:
Conduct market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive threats in the packaged goods markets where we are active and activating.
Analyze sales data and customer feedback to refine sales tactics and strategies.
Monitor industry developments and adjust sales tactics accordingly.
Reporting and Performance Tracking:
Track and report on sales performance, providing regular updates to management.
Use current CRM tools to manage sales activities, pipeline, and client relationships. Work to target new platforms to grow our CRM prowess.
Monitor sales KPIs, adjusting strategies as needed to meet objectives.
OK WORK CULTURE COMMITMENTS
The people who work for our organization are our most important alliance. We are committed to attracting, retaining and developing a diverse group of passionate, high-character individuals who will contribute their best efforts and skills. We are committed to supporting those individuals in a workplace that prioritizes well-being, and recognizes their value with meaningful compensation.
COMPENSATION
At Opportunity Knocks we are committed to a salary band structure that establishes a level of expectation for performance and compensation at each position on the organizational chart. Roles and responsibilities within each department may vary. Bands align by grouping a comparable level of responsibility across departments. Salaries align at band levels so that we can establish a clear, transparent, and equitable compensation structure for the whole organization.
Hourly Wage: $30 per hour
BENEFITS
Retirement - access to retirement plan with $1 for $1 match up to 3% of salary
Time Off - generous allotment of PTO
Work-Life Balance - flexible work schedule, hybrid work options
Technology Stipend - cash stipend available to support tech needs
Wellness - access to RFCC Fitness Center and 50% membership reimbursement to Loyola Center for Fitness
OK Merch - annual allotment of budget to support purchase of OK Gear from Swag Store
OK WORKFORCE COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION
We will take a mindful and active role to ensure that we achieve diversity in all aspects of our organization and our work. Such diversity will reflect the culturally rich and vibrant community that we represent. We will openly welcome people of all backgrounds and seek to foster a culture of respect, openness, learning, integrity, and honesty.
This job is not in the org chart
This job is not in any teams