Account Specialist I

Great Lakes Industrial (GLI) is a leader in the Industrial manufacturing & distribution sector, specializing in innovative engineered solutions and products. With a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we are driven by a passion for operational excellence. As we continue to expand, we seek a skilled and motivated team member to join our dynamic team.

POSITION SUMMARY: An Account Specialist plays a vital role in connecting our internal operations with the needs of our customers and sales team. This hybrid role blends customer service, account management, sales support, and inside sales. We expect our Account Specialists to be responsive, personable, communicative, and collaborative. As the specialists grow, they will develop long-standing relationships with our customers, management team, warehouse employees and outside reps as well as become experts on a variety of different product lines GLI offers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Reasonable Accommodations Statement To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Interact daily with customers and internal operations to answer questions, give out information and pricing, and expedite parts
• Develop relationships with new and existing customers to help assess GLIs profitability, make recommendations, and support sales decisions
• Develop a sound understanding of our product offerings and be able to creatively determine the best product to offer our customers
• Work closely with internal operations teams to assist customers with technical, quality, billing, and delivery concerns, ensuring timely and effective outcomes
• Implement GLIs procurement, operations, business development, and pricing strategies for new and existing customers to increase profitability
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts, providing feedback to optimize internal processes and customer experiences
• Collaborate daily with sales reps, warehouse staff, and supply chain team to ensure smooth order fulfillment and accurate communication
• Monitor margins on orders and flag discrepancies or opportunities for improvement

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

Competencies

An Account Specialist must have passion for creating a remarkable customer experience, while identifying opportunities to create cost-effective solutions for GLI and our customers. The team member must be able to multi-task and be able to change gears quickly and effectively. As GLI is looking to advance and grow, the specialist also must be able to adapt to new requirements and see change as a challenge/growth opportunity and not a requirement.

Education: Associate’s degree with relevant experience also considered

Experience: Basic understanding of customer service operations, supply chain, and sales

Computer Skills: Proficiency with CRM platforms and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel and Outlook)

Certificates & Licenses: N/A

Other Skills, Attributes, and Abilities

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts
• Exceptional organization skills and detail oriented with demonstrated organization and multitasking skills
• Effective time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• High level of integrity, respect, and humility
• Lifelong learner who is willing to share their knowledge and experience for the betterment of the team, company, and community

WORK ENVIRONMENT

At GLI, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity strengthens our team and enhances our ability to innovate. To perform this job successfully, the candidate must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified candidates with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work is performed primarily in the office. The noise level is generally quiet with occasional moments of louder activity. Work may also be performed in the warehouse, helping to assist with activities needed in that area. Work is to be performed normally during company’s operating hours of 7:30am – 4:00pm CST Monday through Friday. There are few exceptions to extended work hours.

To satisfy proper role requirements, the candidate must complete all safety, quality, and vendor training programs as needed. Additionally, the candidate must have or obtain a driver’s license to follow a career path in the Customer Success department and/or other opportunities at Great Lakes Industrial.