Account Development Specialist - OEM

Overview

This hands‑on, activity‑driven role is ideal for a proactive individual eager to learn, contribute, and grow within a dynamic team. The Account Development Specialist (OEM) supports Phoenix Contact’s sales of all products by combining engineering knowledge with strong interpersonal and business skills. The primary focus is identifying growth opportunities, building relationships with potential and existing developing customers, and supporting the sales pipeline through consistent outreach and follow‑up.

The territory for this role is Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee.

• Meet or exceed territory sales quotas as established by the RSM and/or Vice President—Field Sales.
• Implement BASE selling skills to build strong customer relationships.
• Generate leads through cold calls, emails, and networking events.
• Support preparation of proposals, presentations, and sales materials.
• Maintain and update CRM systems with accurate client information, using the CRM as a communication, reporting, measurement, and tracking tool.
• Collaborate with the entire Phoenix Contact team to align efforts and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Track and report on business‑development activities and performance metrics.
• Differentiate Phoenix Contact from other component vendors by building “partner” relationships with customers.
• Focus on the customer by averaging a minimum of 20 sales calls per week.
• Drive the use of all sales tools provided to support local markets.
• Work closely with Harrisburg Product teams to aid in the development of field presentations and application notes.
• Maximize productivity, responsiveness, and customer delight by proactively utilizing all resources and sales tools.
• Continue personal development through an effective skill‑building program as determined by the RSM, Director of Sales, and/or the Harrisburg Training Department.
• Demonstrate technical competence on all products/solutions within the area of focus.
• Provide forecasts and reports to RSM as required.
• Develop and implement effective Mutual Action Plans with assigned distributor locations, independently or with regional management.
• Deliver presentations and hands‑on demonstrations of Phoenix Contact products, applications, and technology for product sales.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of all Phoenix Contact products/solutions.
• Qualify and follow up on all leads within the assigned territory.
• Follow up on all quotations within the assigned territory for the given account portfolio.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Four‑year degree in a technical discipline preferred and/or equivalent experience.
• One to three years minimum sales experience in the electronics or industrial automation & controls marketplace.
• Experience working with distribution preferred.
• Comfortable making cold calls and sending outreach emails.
• Self‑motivated with the ability to learn and adapt quickly.

• Must be able to travel via airplane.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to travel via automobile for up to six hours at a time.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Must be able to travel overnight 50%+ or as dictated by assigned territory.
• Comply with company dress code guidelines.
• Punctuality required.
• Regular and on‑time attendance.

Phoenix Contact offers a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) matching; a bonus plan; and an extensive time‑off package. Additional benefits include 16 weeks fully paid maternity leave, 10 weeks fully paid paternity leave, auto allowance, life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, and more.

Phoenix Contact is committed to the diversity of our employees. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.