Account Executive - Academic

About the role

As an Account Executive focused on the academic sector at Researchsol, you will play a pivotal role in driving our sales strategy and expanding our client base within educational institutions. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about fostering relationships with academic professionals and institutions, promoting innovative solutions that enhance research capabilities. You will be responsible for managing the entire sales cycle, from prospecting to closing deals, while ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction and engagement.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and implement strategic sales plans tailored to the academic sector, targeting universities, colleges, and research institutions.
• Identify and qualify potential leads through various channels, including networking, cold calling, and attending academic conferences.
• Conduct in-depth needs assessments with prospective clients to understand their research requirements and how Researchsol's offerings can meet those needs.
• Present and demonstrate Researchsol's products and services to academic stakeholders, highlighting the unique value propositions and benefits.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements with clients, ensuring mutually beneficial terms that align with company goals.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing and product development, to ensure that client feedback is incorporated into future product enhancements.
• Maintain accurate records of sales activities, client interactions, and pipeline status in the company's CRM system.
• Provide ongoing support and account management to existing clients, ensuring they are satisfied with our solutions and identifying opportunities for upselling or cross-selling.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies in the academic sector to effectively position Researchsol's offerings.
• Prepare and deliver regular sales reports and forecasts to management, outlining progress against targets and identifying areas for improvement.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance sales skills and product knowledge.
• Foster long-term relationships with academic institutions to establish Researchsol as a trusted partner in their research endeavors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in sales, preferably within the academic or educational technology sector.
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets and driving revenue growth.
• Strong understanding of the academic landscape, including the challenges and needs of research institutions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in using CRM software and other sales tools to manage leads and track performance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Willingness to travel as needed to meet with clients and attend industry events.

Nice to have

• Experience selling software or services specifically designed for academic institutions.
• Familiarity with research funding processes and grant applications in the academic sector.
• Existing relationships with key decision-makers in universities and research organizations.
• Knowledge of data analytics and how it can be applied to enhance research outcomes.
• Experience in a startup environment, with a demonstrated ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot).
• Strong analytical skills to assess market trends and client needs effectively.
• Excellent negotiation skills to secure favorable terms and close deals.
• Ability to create compelling sales presentations and proposals tailored to academic audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients and foster long-term relationships.

Practical notes

• The position is a contract role, with specific details about the duration and terms to be discussed during the interview process.
• The exact location of the job is currently unspecified; candidates should be prepared for remote work or potential travel.
• Salary information is not provided; compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience.
• Visa sponsorship details are not mentioned; candidates should verify their eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction.

META

Company: Researchsol

Title: Account Executive

Academic

Job type: Contract

Apply URL: https://researchsol.bamboohr.com/careers/106