Direct Sales Manager

Job Summary:

ZOOK is a leading Rupture Disk manufacturer committed to delivering high-performance products and exceptional customer service. As we continue to grow in the Houston market, we are looking for a driven, customer-focused Direct Sales Representative to lead the charge in expanding our presence by calling directly on end users, while also engaging with OEMs and Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) firms.

Position Summary:
We’re seeking a results-oriented Direct Sales Representative to take ownership of the Houston territory with a strong emphasis on face-to-face end user engagement. In this role, you will be responsible for building long-term relationships, uncovering new applications, and driving revenue through direct interaction with plant personnel, maintenance teams, engineering staff, and purchasing decision-makers. In addition to direct end user calls, you'll support business growth through strategic involvement with OEMs and EPCs on key projects.

Tools:

Computer software including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite, NAV or other databases, Outlook, Teams, project management software, accounting tools, office hardware, etc.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct regular direct sales calls on end users to identify needs, present product solutions, and grow account value.
• Build and maintain strong relationships at the plant and facility level, including with maintenance, engineering, and procurement personnel.
• Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities across key industrial sectors such as oil & gas, chemical, energy, and manufacturing.
• Support project-based sales through EPC firms and influence product specification and selection processes.
• Collaborate with OEM partners to deliver integrated customer solutions.
• Build and manage a robust sales pipeline that includes both short- and long-cycle opportunities.
• Deliver effective technical presentations and product demonstrations tailored to specific customer applications.
• Maintain accurate CRM records, including opportunity tracking, customer communications, and forecasting.
• Represent the company at trade shows, industry events, customer site visits, and vendor days.
• Perform competitive market analysis and maintain an internal database of competitive and complementary products.
• Monitor and report on Voice of the Customer (VOC) performance metrics to ensure top-tier customer satisfaction.
• Provide timely technical and commercial support to both new prospects and existing customers within the region.
• Generate and submit weekly sales reports, activity summaries, and territory performance updates to management.
• Keep client information up to date within the company’s CRM system.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitive dynamics, and emerging opportunities for business growth.
• Analyze market potential and track sales metrics to support goal setting and territory development.
• Communicate regularly with management regarding customer needs, challenges, competitive activity, and potential for new product development.
• Support contract management and ensure fulfillment of customer and company requirements.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Key Performance Metrics:

• Maximize the enterprise value. Exceed annual revenue and profit targets while positioning business for sustainable results in support of a 5-year strategic plan.
• Facilitate a culture of excellence.
• Maintain health and safety initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, engineering or a related field.
• Strong knowledge in Industrial Sales.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of professional experience, including 5 years as a Sales Manager in the Houston market.
• Commercial development acumen including value chain analysis, customer needs analysis, definition of value proposition, market positioning and a track record of success.
• Willingness and ability to travel 50+%.
• Highly competent in implementing strategies.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, public speaking, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a matrix organization and team environment.
• Solid working knowledge of budgeting, sales, business development, and strategic planning.
• Ability to generate respect and trust from staff and external constituencies.
• Proficiency with ERP, CRM, and MS Office software applications.