Retail Sales Specialist

Tamko Building Products

Chicago, IL

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Brand Marketing (Branding), Budgeting, Business Support, Calendar Management, Channel Management, Channel Strategies, Competitive Analysis/Strategy, Competitive Research, Cross-Functional, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Customer Support/Service, Depth Perception, Distribution Channel, Driver's License, Forecasting, Inventory Levels, Lead Generation, Leadership, Loyalty Programs, Market Trend Analysis, Marketing, Merchandising, Microsoft Excel, Negotiation Skills, Organizational Skills, Performance Metrics, Physical Demands, Pricing, Product Demonstration, Product Development, Product Management, Product Marketing, Product Merchandising, Promotional Programs, Purchasing/Procurement, Regional Sales, Relationship Management, Residential Construction, Retail, Retail Channel, Retail Sales, Return on Investment (ROI), Revenue Growth, Roofing, Sales, Sales Analysis, Sales Forecasting, Sales Management, Sales Promotions, Sales Qualification, Salesforce.com, Strategic Accounts, Strategic Planning, Supply Chain Operations, Time Management, Waterproofing, Willing to Travel
LOCATION
Chicago, IL
POSTED
30+ days ago

TAMKO is seeking Retail Sales Specialists to be based remotely in Chicago, Detroit and St. Louis. The Retail Sales Specialist drives TAMKO's growth in the retail roofing market by managing key partnerships with major big-box retailers and building strong engagement among local contractors. This role combines strategic account management, field training, and data-driven sales execution to increase TAMKO product awareness, sales conversion, and brand loyalty from shelf to jobsite.

Essential Job Functions

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may also be assigned.

Retail Account Leadership

Serve as TAMKO's primary field contact for the assigned big-box retail partner's regional and store-level teams.

Collaborate on regional sales plans, promotional calendars, merchandising initiatives, and product mix optimization.

Monitor sales trends, inventory levels, and category performance to provide actionable insights and growth recommendations.

Support business reviews and joint planning sessions to align TAMKO and retail partner objectives.

Contractor Engagement & Channel Growth

Develop and implement strategies to drive TAMKO product adoption among small to mid-sized roofing contractors purchasing through retail.

Build strong local contractor relationships through in-store events, product demonstrations, and training sessions.

Partner with marketing and sales teams to increase participation in loyalty, rebate, and certification programs.

Implement and manage lead generation and follow-up processes to convert prospects into active TAMKO users.

Field Enablement & Training

Collaborate with retail field teams and store associates to enhance product knowledge and selling confidence.

Conduct in-store and virtual product training sessions to strengthen associate and contractor engagement.

Ensure merchandising standards, displays, and sample materials are maintained for strong retail presentation.

Represent TAMKO at regional trade events to strengthen brand presence and generate qualified leads.

Market Intelligence & Reporting

Track and report weekly sales, promotional results, contractor engagement metrics, and ROI of retail initiatives.

Use CRM and retailer data systems to identify opportunities for incremental growth and targeted follow-up.

Monitor competitor activity, pricing, and market trends to maintain TAMKO's competitive position.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work closely with Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure accurate forecasting and timely promotions.

Provide feedback to Product Management and Marketing on contractor needs, trends, and competitive activity.

Coordinate with other TAMKO staff to ensure alignment between retail and distribution channel strategies.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field preferred.

Experience: 3-5 years in sales, account management, or channel development within building materials or home improvement retail.

Proven success supporting national or regional retail accounts (e.g., Lowe's, The Home Depot, Menards).

Experience driving contractor engagement and loyalty programs strongly preferred.

Skills and Competencies

Technical Skills: Salesforce CRM, retailer data portals, Microsoft Excel.

Soft Skills: Relationship management, negotiation, presentation, and collaboration.

Analytical Skills: Sales analysis, forecasting, and ROI evaluation.

Personal Traits: Self-motivated, organized, and results-oriented with a growth mindset.

Travel and Work Environment

Approximately 40% of overnight travel within the assigned region, including store visits, trade events, and retail partner meetings.

Must hold a valid driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Year-over-year territory sales growth.

Increased TAMKO product penetration among small and mid-sized contractors.

Measurable lift in retail store associate engagement and product knowledge.

Timely and budget-compliant execution of promotional programs.

Positive partner feedback and alignment on strategic initiatives.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include acuity sufficient for driving an automobile and truck, minimal color discrimination, and accurate depth perception.

Frequent extended work hours.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

In addition to competitive wages, TAMKO offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Group Health and Life Insurance, Vision and Dental Insurance, a Flexible Benefits Plan, a 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match, a Profit Sharing Retirement Plan, and other valuable benefits.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work expected. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required and is subject to change at any time based on business needs.

TAMKO Building Products LLC is one of the nations largest independent manufacturers of residential and commercial roofing products, waterproofing products, and related building materials. Headquartered in Galena, Kansas, TAMKO has been committed to innovation, quality, and customer service for over 80 years. Our success is driven by our people - individuals who take pride in their work, share an ownership mindset, and are dedicated to delivering excellence. At TAMKO, we strive to foster a safe, supportive, and rewarding work environment where employees can grow and succeed.

About the Company

T

Tamko Building Products

TAMKO® Building Products, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest independent manufacturers of residential and commercial roofing products (including MetalWorks® Steel Shingles), decking and railing products, waterproofing, cements and coatings. With 70 years in the industry, TAMKO’s success is the direct result of teamwork and enduring relationships with customers, suppliers and employees. Privately owned, TAMKO is committed to producing quality products with superior product support.

COMPANY SIZE
1,500 to 1,999 employees
INDUSTRY
Construction
FOUNDED
1944
WEBSITE
https://www.tamko.com/