Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a Wholesale Account Executive, you play a vital role in the distribution landscape, acting as a bridge between manufacturers and retailers. Your responsibilities extend beyond basic sales; you are tasked with developing strategic relationships that drive business growth.
- You identify potential clients and understand their needs, ensuring that the products offered align with market demand.
- You negotiate contracts and pricing, effectively balancing the interests of both the supplier and the retailer to secure profitable deals.
- You are responsible for managing existing accounts, fostering long-term partnerships by addressing any issues and providing ongoing support.
- Your ability to analyze market trends and sales data allows you to inform your clients about new opportunities and optimize their inventory choices.
- Collaborating with marketing and product development teams is also part of your role, ensuring that your clients are well-informed about product launches and promotional campaigns.
- You contribute significantly to the overall supply chain management process, ensuring timely deliveries and efficient distribution.
Engaging in this role requires not only sales acumen but also an understanding of industry dynamics, as your efforts directly impact the distribution efficiency of products in the marketplace.
Wholesale Account Executive Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma
To become a Wholesale Account Executive, you typically need a relevant educational background. Here are some college degree programs that are beneficial for this career path:
Accounting and Business Management: This program provides a solid foundation in financial analysis, budgeting, and managing business operations. Understanding accounting principles is essential for handling financial transactions and reports effectively.
Business Administration and Management: A degree in this field equips you with comprehensive knowledge of business operations, organizational behavior, and strategic planning. It prepares you for various roles within businesses, including wholesale account management.
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations: This program focuses on the skills needed to start and manage small businesses. It emphasizes innovation, business planning, and operational management, all of which are valuable in wholesale environments.
Marketing: A marketing degree gives you insights into market analysis, consumer behavior, and promotional strategies. This knowledge is essential for effectively selling products and developing strong relationships with clients.
Marketing Management: This degree places a stronger emphasis on the strategic aspects of marketing within organizations. You will learn how to manage marketing campaigns, evaluate market trends, and implement strategies that drive sales, which is highly relevant in a wholesale context.
While a bachelor's degree may be sufficient for many positions, some employers might prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for higher-level executive roles.
Best Schools to become a Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Southern New Hampshire University
Western Governors University
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Grand Canyon University
Liberty University
- Sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses or groups of individuals.
- Work requires substantial knowledge of items sold.
Wholesale Account Executive Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Sales Acumen: You need to have a strong understanding of sales processes, techniques, and strategies that drive revenue growth and client acquisition.
Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients is vital. You should excel in communication and be adept at understanding and addressing their needs.
Negotiation Skills: You must be able to negotiate effectively to provide value to both your clients and your organization. This includes securing favorable terms and resolving conflicts.
Product Knowledge: A deep familiarity with the products and services you represent is essential. You should be able to articulate their benefits and advantages to clients clearly.
Market Analysis: The ability to analyze market trends and consumer behavior helps you to identify opportunities and inform your sales strategies.
Customer Service Orientation: A focus on customer satisfaction not only strengthens client loyalty but also enhances overall sales success.
Time Management: You will need to prioritize tasks effectively and manage your schedule to maximize productivity and meet sales targets.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and other relevant software tools is important for tracking contacts, sales, and performance.
Problem-Solving Skills: Being able to think critically and resolve issues that may arise in the sales process is essential for maintaining positive client relationships.
Team Collaboration: Working well with internal teams, including marketing and logistics, ensures that client needs are met efficiently and effectively.
Presentation Skills: You should be able to deliver compelling presentations to clients and stakeholders to influence and persuade.
Adaptability: The ability to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and client preferences is key to maintaining relevance and competitiveness.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in contracts, proposals, and communication minimizes mistakes and enhances professionalism.
Job Duties for Wholesale Account Executives
Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms.
Estimate or quote prices, credit or contract terms, warranties, and delivery dates.
Recommend products to customers, based on customers' needs and interests.
Customer relationship management CRM software
- Oracle Eloqua
- Salesforce software
Data base user interface and query software
- Blackboard software
- Yardi software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Oracle PeopleSoft
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- Bringing people together to solve differences
- Talking people into changing their minds or their behavior
Job Market and Opportunities for Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma
The job market for Wholesale Account Executives in Oklahoma is currently robust, driven by the state's diverse economic landscape. As businesses expand and adapt to changing market conditions, the demand for professionals who can manage and grow wholesale accounts continues to increase.
Various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, contribute significantly to the need for Wholesale Account Executives. The ongoing economic recovery and growth in these sectors are leading employers to seek skilled professionals to handle customer relationships, drive sales, and enhance distribution strategies.
The growth potential for Wholesale Account Executives in Oklahoma appears promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions in sales and related occupations are expected to grow, fueled by the continuous need for businesses to expand their market reach and improve customer service.
Geographical hotspots for Wholesale Account Executive roles in Oklahoma include:
- Oklahoma City: As the state capital and a major hub for a variety of industries, Oklahoma City offers numerous opportunities in wholesaling, particularly in sectors like health services and retail.
- Tulsa: Known for its oil and gas industry, Tulsa also has a growing manufacturing sector, which creates demand for account executives who can manage relationships with suppliers and distributors.
- Norman: Home to a major university, the local economy is bolstered by educational institutions and research facilities, opening up avenues in wholesale distribution related to technology and innovation.
Additionally, smaller communities throughout the state are contributing to this job market as local businesses evolve and seek talented individuals to help scale operations.
Networking within sectors aligned with your interests, attending industry-related events, and staying connected with local business organizations can enhance your job search efforts in this market.
Top Related Careers to Wholesale Account Executive 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma
National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAWD)
- Website: www.naw.org
- This organization provides valuable information on industry trends, networking opportunities, and professional development resources tailored for wholesaler-distributors.
American Marketing Association (AMA)
- Website: www.ama.org
- The AMA offers resources on marketing strategies, certifications, and best practices that are beneficial for understanding market dynamics relevant to wholesale distribution.
Sales & Marketing Management (SMM)
- Website: www.salesandmarketing.com
- A leading resource for sales professionals, SMM covers industry news, trends, and expert advice that can enhance your skills as a Wholesale Account Executive.
LinkedIn Learning
- Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
- Offers numerous courses focused on sales techniques, account management, and negotiation skills relevant to wholesale account executives.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Wholesale and Retail Trade
- Website: www.bls.gov/iif/
- The BLS provides data on employment trends, wages, and job outlook in the wholesale and retail trade sectors, which can help in career planning.
Selling Power
- Website: www.sellingpower.com
- An excellent resource for insights into effective sales strategies, tools, and articles that are pertinent to the wholesale market.
State of Oklahoma Economic Development
- Website: www.okcommerce.gov
- This site provides market insights, regulatory information, and resources for businesses operating within Oklahoma’s wholesale industry.
HubSpot Academy
- Website: academy.hubspot.com
- Free courses on inbound sales and sales techniques that can be particularly beneficial for Wholesale Account Executives looking to enhance their selling skills.
Trade Publications
- Useful to follow industry-specific publications like Trade Show Executive or Wholesale & Distributor to keep abreast of developments and innovations in the wholesale sector.
Local Networking Groups
- Consider joining organizations such as the Oklahoma Sales and Marketing Executives or local chambers of commerce that can provide networking and professional growth opportunities within the wholesale industry.
These resources will support your professional development and keep you informed about the evolving landscape of wholesale account management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma
What does a Wholesale Account Executive do?
A Wholesale Account Executive is responsible for managing relationships with wholesale clients, developing sales strategies, promoting products, and meeting sales targets. You will often liaise between manufacturers and retailers, ensuring that products are efficiently distributed while addressing client needs.What skills are essential for this role?
Key skills include strong communication abilities, negotiation skills, relationship management, customer service orientation, and business acumen. Proficiency in data analysis and familiarity with CRM software can also enhance your effectiveness in this position.What educational background is typically required?
Most Wholesale Account Executive positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, often in business, marketing, or communications. Relevant experience in sales or account management can also be beneficial.What is the typical salary range for a Wholesale Account Executive in Oklahoma?
Salaries for Wholesale Account Executives in Oklahoma can vary widely based on experience, industry, and the size of the company. Generally, the range is approximately $50,000 to $90,000 annually, with potential for commission and bonuses based on sales performance.What industries employ Wholesale Account Executives?
Wholesale Account Executives can be found in various industries, including consumer goods, industrial supplies, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Your specific industry choice may impact your daily responsibilities and client interactions.What are the common career advancement opportunities?
With experience, a Wholesale Account Executive may advance to roles such as Sales Manager, Regional Sales Director, or even Vice President of Sales. Continuing education and networking can play substantial roles in career progression.How can I gain experience in this field?
You can gain experience through internships, entry-level sales positions, or roles in customer service. Seeking opportunities to network with industry professionals and attending trade shows can also provide valuable insights and connections.What are the work hours like for a Wholesale Account Executive?
Work hours can vary but typically follow standard business hours. However, being in sales often requires flexibility, including evenings or weekends, especially when meeting clients.Is travel often required in this role?
Yes, travel may be required, depending on the client base you manage. You might need to visit clients, attend trade shows, or meet with suppliers, so being open to travel can be an important aspect of the job.What is the importance of networking in this career?
Networking is vital in sales, as it helps build relationships, identify potential clients, and receive referrals. Engaging in industry events and using platforms like LinkedIn can enhance your professional network.What challenges might I face as a Wholesale Account Executive?
Common challenges include managing client expectations, competition, fluctuating market conditions, and meeting sales targets. Developing resilience and strong problem-solving skills can help you navigate these challenges successfully.