Overview
Sales Operations & Strategic Accounts Manager Jobs in Greater Chicago Area at CEC Industries
Title: Sales Operations & Strategic Accounts Manager
Company: CEC Industries
Location: Greater Chicago Area
CEC Industries, Ltd. is a minority‑owned, family‑run manufacturer and distributor of automotive lighting and electrical products. Guided by our core pillars — Innovation, Ownership, Earn Trust & Respect, Collaboration, and Empathy — we are seeking a professional Sales Operations & Strategic Accounts Manager to strengthen forecasting, sales execution, and customer alignment, with a clear path to owning our largest accounts.
This role is ideal for a sales professional who understands that strong customer relationships are built on strong data, forecasting, and internal execution, and who is comfortable starting in a highly collaborative, internally focused role before transitioning into key account ownership.
What You’ll Do – Phase 1 (Sales Operations & Forecasting)
· Own sales forecasting, revenue tracking, and reporting across key customers and SKUs
· Analyze customer ordering behavior, seasonality, and trends to improve forecast accuracy
· Partner closely with Purchasing, Sales, and Finance to align demand and supply
· Support pricing updates, margin analysis, and account performance reviews
· Coordinate with national sales rep agencies to align priorities and initiatives
· Deliver clear monthly and quarterly sales insights to leadership
What You’ll Do – Phase 2 (Strategic Account Ownership)
· Gradually assume ownership of large, strategic customer accounts
· Serve as the primary relationship manager for key customers
· Lead pricing discussions, forecasting conversations, and account planning
· Identify expansion opportunities within existing accounts
· Represent CEC at customer meetings, trade shows, and industry events
What We’re Looking For
· 5–10 years of experience in sales, sales operations, or account management
(automotive aftermarket or electrical/lighting products preferred)
· Experience working with large or strategic B2B accounts
· Strong analytical skills; advanced Excel proficiency required
· Experience collaborating cross‑functionally with operations, finance, or supply chain
· Professional, structured communicator who earns trust internally and externally
· Comfortable growing into a customer‑facing leadership role over time
Why CEC Industries
· Clear path into Strategic / Key Account ownership
· Salaried role with performance tied to meaningful KPIs (not pure commission)
· Stable, well‑run organization with hands‑on leadership
· Opportunity to shape sales processes and customer strategy
👉 Apply if you’re a sales professional who values structure, accountability, and long‑term customer relationships.
