all about sales executive jobs

Sales executive roles are largely about the numbers. It’s about ensuring your organization meets its revenue targets. Therefore, the bulk of your time will be consumed with projecting and meeting sales and growth targets, hitting profit and revenue goals, and capturing market share.

what sales executive jobs entail

Sales executives work in a professional office environment. Your office is typically located in the company corporate office. You will work on salary and typically work more than 40 hours per week. Some events and weekends may be required. Travel is a large part of your job. Many sales executive jobs involve a lot of travelling to meet clients, network, attend industry functions, and visit regional offices.

average sales executive salaries

Sales executive jobs offer great earning potential. The average annual salary for a sales executive is approximately $120,000. On the low end of the compensation scale, you can expect to make about $80,000 per year. Your annual salary tops out at about $170,000 annually. However, you could make more than $200,000 per year once you factor in performance bonuses, commission, and profit sharing opportunities. Experience with new business development, people management, and leadership can also help increase your earning potential. 

your day to day tasks

As a sales executive, you're part of the executive team at your company, and will be reponsible for making key decisions. Your day may include tasks like:

• developing a yearly sales plan
• implementing sales strategies
• managing the overall sales function
• managing the sales budget
• creating a strong sales culture
• assisting with recruiting sales professionals
• monitoring industry trends and customer markets

where you can work

Sales executive jobs are common in most organizations. Being tasked with the setting of sales targets and aligning them with business objectives is required in all size companies. In most cases, you will work for a large company or corporation in sales, retail, manufacturing, or other related industries. Sales executive jobsare can be found across Canada, especially in large cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver, to name a few.

what you bring to the table

The sales executives set the company direction and strategic sales plan. Some of the skills companies look for in sales executives include:

• experience creating sales strategies
• analytical and able to solve problems
• experience in a leadership role
• new business development
• people management
• negotiation skills
• customer relationship management (CRM)

training and certifications

Sales is largely about experience and previous success. However, most sales executive jobs requires candidates to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business administration, sales, marketing, or related fields. An MBA is preferred by many organizations. For top tier roles, you may also be expected to show proof of success in other sales roles. Additional sales industry certifications and credentials are an asset.

where your career is headed

As a sales executive, you're near the top of your industry. However, there is still opportunity for career growth. After a number of years working as a sales executive, the next step in your career can be a lateral move into similar but higher paying executive roles, or shifting into business development. Sales directors and VPs can also take a step up to president of sales, chief operating officer, or even CEO of the organization.