Academic Account Manager

About the Role Reporting to the Manager, Academic Sales, the Academic Account Manager - Southwest Region is responsible for driving revenue growth by managing existing academic customer relationships and developing new business opportunities within the higher education sector. This role supports a territory consisting of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, representing approximately 146 colleges and universities. The successful candidate will focus on expanding Danby's MicroFridge rental program, increasing off-campus market penetration, strengthening customer relationships, and driving adoption of new products and solutions across the region. The ideal candidate is a motivated sales professional with experience in account management, business development, customer success, sales development, or higher education. Individuals with backgrounds in residence life, student housing, auxiliary services, facilities management, procurement, or university administration are encouraged to apply. This role offers an excellent opportunity to build a territory, grow a recurring rental revenue base, and contribute to Danby's continued growth within the higher education market. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Develop and execute a strategic sales plan to grow business throughout Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Identify, develop, and cultivate new business opportunities while managing and expanding existing customer accounts. Drive growth of the MicroFridge rental program through both on-campus and off-campus sales initiatives. Present compelling sales presentations and product demonstrations showcasing Danby's products and value proposition. Build and maintain strong relationships with Residence Life, Housing, Facilities, Procurement, Auxiliary Services, and other key stakeholders. Collaborate with sales, finance, operations, marketing, and product management teams to achieve business objectives. Provide oversight, review, and follow-up with customers and distributors regarding proposals, target lists, and sales opportunities. Train customers and sales partners on product specifications, features, and applications within academic environments. Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments to identify growth opportunities. Maintain accurate records of customer interactions, sales activities, forecasts, and pipeline opportunities within CRM systems. Develop annual business plans designed to meet or exceed revenue objectives. Attend education-focused trade shows, industry conferences, customer meetings, and networking events. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, Education, or a related field. 4+ years of experience in sales, account management, business development, customer success, higher education administration, residence life, student housing, educational procurement, or related customer-facing roles. Experience selling to colleges, universities, residence life departments, student housing organizations, or educational institutions is considered an asset. Experience working within a higher education environment and understanding institutional purchasing processes is highly valued. Experience with MHEC or similar purchasing consortiums is an asset. Strong prospecting, relationship-building, and consultative selling skills. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and grow a defined territory. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. Strong negotiation and relationship management capabilities. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM platforms. Ability to travel throughout the assigned territory as required. What We Offer Competitive base salary of $65,000. Year 1 on-target earnings of $90,000+, including commission and incentive opportunities. Long-term earning potential of $100,000+ for high performers. Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement programs. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement. A supportive, collaborative, and entrepreneurial work environment. Competitive paid time off program. The opportunity to build and grow a high-potential territory serving more than 146 colleges and universities across the Southwest region. Danby is an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. Accommodations are available upon request in all aspects of the recruitment process.