Sysco Sales Representative - Chicago, IL

Role Overview

As a Sales Representative at Sysco Chicago, you'll be at the forefront of our mission to help our customers succeed. This outside sales position focuses on building strong relationships with both new and existing accounts within a defined territory (Des Plaines, Skokie, Niles, Evanston IL). Your primary goal will be to promote Sysco's extensive range of products and services, ensuring our customers have everything they need to thrive in the competitive foodservice industry. This role requires a proactive approach, excellent communication skills, and a passion for delivering exceptional customer service. If you’re a driven sales professional or have experience in restaurant/culinary management and are seeking a rewarding career with growth opportunities, this is the perfect role.

A Day in the Life

Your day will be dynamic and varied, encompassing a range of activities that contribute to your success and the success of your customers. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Morning: Start by reviewing your sales pipeline, prioritizing customer follow-ups, and preparing for upcoming meetings. You'll analyze market trends and identify potential sales opportunities.
• Mid-day: Visit existing customer locations within your territory to assess their needs, provide product recommendations, and offer solutions to improve their operations. You'll also prospect for new customers, networking and building relationships within the foodservice community.
• Afternoon: Conduct product demonstrations and training sessions for customer staff. You’ll address customer inquiries and resolve any issues promptly. You'll also prepare and present sales proposals to potential clients, negotiating pricing and contract terms.
• Evening (occasional): Attend industry events, networking functions, or customer dinners to further cultivate relationships and stay abreast of market trends.

This role may require working some non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends, and holidays) to successfully meet customer needs.

Why Chicago, Illinois?

Chicago is a vibrant and diverse culinary hub, making it an ideal location for a Sysco Sales Representative. The city boasts a thriving restaurant scene, with a wide range of establishments from Michelin-starred restaurants to neighborhood eateries. This diverse market provides ample opportunities for sales growth and professional development. Additionally, Chicago's central location and strong transportation infrastructure facilitate easy access to customers within the designated territory.

Career Path at Sysco

Sysco is committed to the growth and development of its employees. As a Sales Representative, you'll have access to specialized sales training programs designed to enhance your skills and knowledge. Successful performance in this role can lead to various career advancement opportunities within the company, such as:

• Senior Sales Representative: Managing larger accounts and/or mentoring junior sales staff.
• Sales Manager: Leading and managing a team of sales representatives.
• District Sales Manager: Overseeing sales operations for a specific geographic region.
• Specialty Sales Roles: Focusing on specific product categories or customer segments.

Sysco also encourages cross-functional movement, providing opportunities to explore roles in areas such as marketing, operations, and supply chain management.

Salary and Benefits

Sysco offers a competitive compensation package that includes a base salary, bonus opportunities, and promotional incentives. The salary range for this position is estimated to be $65,000 - $95,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to salary, Sysco provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Car allowance (mileage reimbursement in CA) and cell phone
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• 401(k) with automatic matching
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Wellness programs
• Employee discounts

For detailed information on Sysco's benefits, please visit SyscoBenefits.com.

Sysco Culture

Sysco is a purpose-driven organization that values its associates and the communities it serves. The company fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and innovation. Sysco is committed to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees. The company also actively supports local communities through various philanthropic initiatives and partnerships.

How to Apply

If you're ready to join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and embark on a rewarding career, we encourage you to apply online through the Sysco careers website. Please submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. Be sure to emphasize your sales achievements, customer service skills, and knowledge of the foodservice industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the typical career path for a Sales Representative at Sysco?

   Successful Sales Representatives can advance to Senior Sales Representative, Sales Manager, District Sales Manager, or explore specialty sales roles. Opportunities for cross-functional movement within Sysco also exist.

2. What kind of training is provided for new Sales Representatives?

   Sysco provides specialized sales training programs to enhance your skills and knowledge of our products, services, and sales techniques.

3. What are the key responsibilities of a Sales Representative?

   Key responsibilities include developing new business, penetrating existing accounts, minimizing lost business, researching customer needs, and providing product recommendations.

4. What is the work environment like at Sysco?

   Sysco fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and innovation. We value diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees.

5. What benefits does Sysco offer?

   Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and employee stock purchase plan. See SyscoBenefits.com for more details.

6. Is prior foodservice experience required for this role?

   While not always required, restaurant management, culinary management, or chef experience is a plus.

7. What is the travel requirement for this position?

   The position requires travel within the assigned territory, up to 25% of the time.

8. What type of vehicle is needed for this role?

   You will need a reliable personal vehicle to travel to customer accounts. A car allowance (or mileage reimbursement in CA) is provided.

9. Does Sysco offer opportunities for professional development?

   Yes, Sysco is committed to the growth and development of its employees and offers various career pathing and training opportunities.

10. How does Sysco support the community?

    Sysco actively supports local communities through various philanthropic initiatives and partnerships.