Sales Support Rep

Panasonic, one of the largest electronic companies in the world provides a wide range of products, from audiovisual and information/communication equipment to home appliances and components. We endeavor to become a "Customer Value Creation Company" that provides safety, security, comfort and convenience. The name Panasonic is synonymous with innovation, quality, performance and ease of use.Currently the Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC) has multiple opportunities for full-time Sales Support Representatives in various regions within the United States. This position will be located in the territory of Birmingham, AL.BASIC FUNCTION:Support retail channel partners with merchandising, product training, to ensure sales growth of Panasonic products.ACCOUNTABILITIES:Retail store visits 1. Develop strong professional relationships with store management and retail associates. 2. Conduct weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or quarterly store visits based on rotation schedule with key accounts within the territory (overnight travel and some weekend work required.)3. Review new products and technologies with sales associates. Differentiate Panasonic products and technology from competition through effective communications of product message and value. 4. Identify and promote cross category product integration to enhance overall consumer value and experience. (i.e. Panasonic ?Ideas for Life?) (e.g. Entertainment and Display, Imaging and Media.) 5. Review current and upcoming ads, promotions and opportunities with sales associates. 6. Plan and conduct formal and informal in store training sessions to ensure store associates are well versed with PCEC products and promotions. 7. Validate display execution for all product categories:a. Work with store teams to ensure models are displayed and functioning correctly b. Ensure point-of-purchase (POP) materials, tags, rebates or other promotional items are placed and current 8. With store management identify opportunities to increase sales through store and show events. 9. Research and benchmark competitive products or trend information and report findings to management. 10. Support strategies and plans with Panasonic Sales and Product & Marketing teams. 11. Report and follow-up on any store issues such as inventory, non compliance of display, or other issues with store management and the PCEC account team. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:Education and Experience1. 0-2 years sales experience, Consumer Electronics experience preferred.2. Bachelor?s degree preferred. 3. Basic knowledge of PC applications including email, internet, and Microsoft office suite products. 4. 80% travel required5. Ability to lift products up to 40 pounds6. Bilingual in English/Spanish preferredKey Competencies1. Communication and Teaming: a. Excellent presentation, oral, and written communication skills required. b. Ability to articulate product value, explain complex concepts, and overcome objections required. c. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with store personnel and PCEC team members to develop and drive actions to maximize PCEC sales. 2. Territory Management: a. Ability to manage territory responsibilities to maximize relationships with sales associate on the retail floor. b. Strong follow through and the ability to prioritize tasks on a timely basis and training when presented with conflict.c. Recognizes and analyzes problems and possible causes, judging the importance of event and the ability to take appropriate action. d. Timely reporting of store visits; call reports; competitive information; preparation for promotional activities; internal administrative responsibilities (call reports, expense reports, e-mail, etc)e. Adaptable and flexible to work environment including, but not limited to, working overtime, as business needs may require, handling multiple tasks simultaneously, and easily adapting to new assignments, system, tools. 3. Passiona. Enthusiastic, energetic and self motivating. b. Ability to provide a positive influence and project a positive image of Panasonic with retail store personnel. c. Ability to drive high levels of store satisfaction through support, communication, and responsiveness. We are committed to creating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer (m/f/d/v). Pre-employment drug testing may be required. Due to the high volume of responses, we will only be able to respond to candidates of interest. All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the U.S. Thank you for your interest in Panasonic Corporation of North America. https://recruiter.kenexa.com/panasonic/cc/CCJobDetailAction.ss?command=CCViewDetail&ccid=bupJEdUjsTs%3D&job_REQUISITION_NUMBER=15387