Sales Director Client Retention

THOMAS R. MERKEL, Sales Director

Chicago, *****, United States, 325502728, ***********@*****.***, www.linkedin.com/in/thomas- merkel-574061200

SUMMARY Dynamic Sales Director with over 25 years of experience in driving sales and operational excellence. Proven track record in enhancing client retention rates by 35% and achieving a 25% increase in annual revenue through strategic deal negotiations. Expertise in leading cross-functional teams and spearheading innovative sales strategies to expand market share. Committed to delivering measurable results and fostering growth, uniquely positioned to elevate success in a forward-thinking organization. WORK EXPERIENCE

06/2005 – 03/2024 President & CEO, South Water Signs, LLC Elmhurst, USA Founded the company just before the economic downturn, demonstrating resilience in a challenging market.

Sustained operations by securing several large contracts, ensuring business continuity.

Implemented a strategic sales plan that elevated client retention rates by 35%.

Led a cross-functional team on a high-profile project, expanding the sales pipeline by over 50%.

Negotiated and finalized deals with key accounts, driving a 25% increase in annual revenue.

Pioneered the adoption of a CRM system for the sales team, enhancing lead tracking and improving sales forecasting accuracy. Conducted a comprehensive market analysis to identify and exploit new business opportunities, broadening the customer base by 30%. 07/1993 – 06/2005 Sales Manager, H. M. Witt & Company Chicago, USA Developed and executed sales strategies that consistently surpassed quarterly targets by at least 20%.

Managed and mentored a team of 10 sales professionals, resulting in a 15% enhancement in team performance.

Collaborated with the marketing department to devise targeted campaigns, leading to a 40% increase in lead generation.

Streamlined sales processes through the integration of new technologies, achieving a 10% reduction in sales cycle time.

Expanded the company’s market share by identifying and securing two key enterprise-level accounts.

01/1989 – 04/1993 Public Accountant, CPA, Pawlan, Blumenfeld & Miscinski Skokie, USA Performed bank reconciliations and prepared clients' 1120s and 1040s efficiently.

Attracted new clients while adhering to AICPA restrictions. Cultivated and maintained strong relationships with clients of senior partners.

Dedicated six tax seasons to perfecting client service before transitioning to new opportunities.

EDUCATION

01/2019 – 01/2021 University of Notre Dame

MBA, Business Administration

Austin, USA

01/1989 – 01/1993 University of Illinois

Bachelor's, Accounting and Finance

Chicago, USA

Dual degrees in Accounting and Finance.

SKILLS CRM Systems Strategic Sales Planning

Territory Development Lead Generation

MS Office Suite Sales Training

CRM Software Mastery Team Leadership

Sales Guidance Executive Presence

Communication Strategic Planning

Solution Proposals High-Performance Organization

Management

Collaboration Contract Negotiation

Technical Understanding Relationship Building

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