Leadership Development Program Representative - Carol Stream, Chicago Market

Imagine a company that recognizes excellence in not only the products it sells, but also in its employees. R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. is that company. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of quality and professionalism — and we treat our employees like the valuable assets they are.

Founded in 1954, R.S. Hughes Co., Inc. is a dynamic, North American distributor of industrial supplies. With 49 warehouse sites in the United States and Mexico, we maintain an extensive inventory of adhesives, abrasives, electrical, static control, tapes, labeling and safety products.

In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, we offer an environment that asks you to make a difference. We value hard work and common sense, and we consistently reward those that exemplify these traits. If you're looking for a great team to grow with and if you are willing to embrace the challenges of being expected to be the best, we welcome you to come join the R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. team!

Position Description

The Leadership Development Program Representative (LDPR) is the gateway track to a rewarding professional career with R.S. Hughes. Upon hire the LDPR will embark on a nine-month development journey where they experience and learn every facet of the business and fulfill Sales/Account Management, Operations, Supply Chain, and Business Enablement functions in conjunction with the training schedule. In Sales/Account Management, the LDPR will contribute to the growth of our sales pipeline through lead generation, proactive communication, and a world-class customer experience. During the Operations rotation, the LDPR will learn and perform all the functions of a high-volume distribution and fulfilment center. LDPRs will also gain an understanding of our procurement and inventory management best practices during their time with the Supply Chain team. Business enablement training will cover topics such as Business Finance, Quality/Compliance, and HR. All phases of the development program include significant direct contact with our client base and internal partners. Upon successful completion of the development program, the LDPR may be required to relocate for their first assignment.

This position is an excellent opportunity to join a growing team and have immediate impact. The R.S. Hughes sales and operations teams have an inclusive, team-oriented culture that values both collaboration and results. Making what matters work at R.S. Hughes takes the passion of every employee around the nation. We create an environment where creativity, invention and discovery become reality, each and every day. It’s where bold, bright professionals like you can reach your full potential—and where you can help us reach ours.

Key Responsibilities Required to be Successful as a Sales Development Representative

• Guide and process customer orders and inquiries in a fast-paced environment using world-class technology.
• Provide internal support to assigned Sales Representatives regarding any customer requests.
• Utilize social selling techniques to expand network and open new sales opportunities.
• Know and understand the warehouse flow from customer order to customer delivery.
• Supports daily warehouse logistics to operate at maximum efficiency (picking, shipping, receiving).
• Coordinate daily functions with company and customer quality standards.
• Build skills needed to support other critical business functions: supply chain, finance, marketing, etc.
• Document your activities within a customer relationship management (CRM) database.
• Be responsible for prospecting new business opportunities and lead generation.
• Gain an understanding of our technical solutions, products offered and customer needs.
• Proactively communicate and move with a sense of urgency to support customer needs and internal business operations.
• This role is expected to adhere to all company policies and safety protocols.
• Other job duties as assigned.

Education/Certification/Licenses

• Bachelors’ degree or 1-3+ years of experience in Industrial Distribution, Marketing/Sales, Business or related area required.

Skills That Will Make You Successful

• High energy, comfortable on the phone and ability to manage objections.
• Diligence, attention to detail, multi-tasking and prioritization are keys to success in this role.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills; questioning skills required.
• Creative problem-solving skills and ability to diagnose issues and develop solutions.
• Strong sense of urgency and ability to meet short deadlines.
• Ability to work both independently and within a team environment, with focus and high attention to detail.
• Drive to exceed goals and motivated by achieving measurable results.
• Positive, energetic, and relentless attitude for success.
• Builds positive, trust-based relationships.
• Motivated by working as a member of a high performing team.
• Self-starter, data and deadline-driven.
• Flexible to changing needs both internally within the organization and externally in partnership management.
• Able to present information concisely and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• A genuine curiosity to learn things they are not familiar with in order to develop and grow.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with an emphasis on Excel (e.g., data analysis, formulas, and reporting), as well as Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Comfortable using AI tools to support customers, streamline work, and continuously improve productivity.

Our merit-based salary/bonus program offers exceptional growth opportunities. Target compensation range for this Exempt role is up to $65,000

This is a Full-Time position, eligible to participate in the Company’s benefit plans including: Paid Time off; major medical, dental, vision; Company paid short-term and long-term disability; paid parental leave; various supplemental benefit plans; and 12% Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP).