LP SmartSide Specification Consultant

WHO WE ARE:

Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan since 1955, Lumbermen’s operates in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. A leading distributor and manufacturer, we are driven by our mission to enrich lives by intentionally caring for all who experience us. We are employee owned and relationship powered.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Specification Consultant is responsible for securing specifications for LP SmartSide Products, primarily within the commercial design community which includes architects, designers, and store planners in Michigan. He/She may also be required to secure residential specifications which include home builders and cladding installers. Key activities include extensive product education explaining not only features and benefits of LP SmartSide products, but also how our products can satisfy needs of specifiers on their projects. The ability to build and maintain relationships within the specification community is critical. This role will also work closely with the LP team, the OSR team, and the FSR team to drive business forward. Expense account and vehicle allowance are included to support your mission. Day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Obtaining and growing a personal knowledge of LP product offerings specializing in ExpertFinish and ColorFusion

• Developing and fostering relationships with customers
• Serving as the primary contact in the assigned territory for the design community
• Increasing business volume with all accounts in the territory (to include some national accounts)
• Providing design, product, and application information pertinent to individual accounts
• Interacting with sales representatives, regional managers, and LP personnel to maximize results and keep everyone informed.
• Linking designers and planners to vendor partners to ensure specification, where necessary.
• Providing feedback to internal customers regarding the premium cladding needs of the design community
• Actively participating in industry related associations

This position will involve some after-hours activities such as dinners, events, and occasional overnight travel.

At Lumbermen’s, our business is built on relationships. It’s crucial that the person selected to fill this role is a safety-minded team player who gets energy from contributing to collaborative success.

PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Sales & Marketing/Business Administration or a closely related field. Or equivalent and related experience
• At least one year product specification experience, preferably in the commercial and residential design community. Or equivalent and related experience

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Approaches work with considerable energy.
• Self-starter/self-motivated
• Multitasker
• Dependable
• Inquisitive with strong critical listening and analytical skills
• Ability to market and educate customers on both current and new products.
• Ability to build and foster strong customer relationships.
• Ability to overcome obstacles and challenges to drive for maximum customer-driven results.
• Ability to make persuasive product presentations targeted to customer needs.
• Strong negotiation skills
• Knowledge of the complete product line and its marketing performance
• Knowledge of safety standards applicable to the work area and other pertinent rules/regulations governing work standards

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift 30-40 pounds.

WHAT WE OFFER:

Lumbermen’s exists to enrich the lives of people by intentionally caring for all who experience us. You will experience a different kind of work environment and “family” here and help live out the Lumbermen’s promises of committing to those who count on us, doing what’s right, exercising sound business practices and earning consideration. Other benefits include:

• A collaborative and supportive work environment
• ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) – generous company-funded retirement
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Flexible spending/health savings account
• 401(k)
• The SOURCE – free and confidential support resources for our team
• $250 Clothing allowance for work apparel, protective footwear, and PPE
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Training and development
• Advancement opportunities

Lumbermen’s is proud to be a drug and alcohol-free workplace. In addition, Lumbermen’s will not discriminate against any employee or candidate because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We participate in E-Verify.