Territory Sales Manager - Heartland

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops.  We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour.

The Territory Sales Manager (TSM) is responsible for driving sales within an assigned territory, focusing on building relationships with agricultural clients and promoting Pivot Bio’s innovative microbial solutions. The TSM will lead strategic business planning, sales team training, and territory management, with a commitment to fieldwork four days per week. The role involves prospecting, recruiting, managing representatives, and understanding customer needs to represent Pivot Bio’s values and drive sales growth.

Job Duties

• Develop comprehensive business plans to achieve sales targets within the territory.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and customer needs to inform strategic planning.
• Train, mentor, and support local grower and retail representatives to ensure they meet their targets.
• Ensure the network of seed treaters in the territory is fully operational during the spring planting season and properly maintained after use in the summer.
• Promote Pivot Bio NOVATOR Sustainability initiatives.
• Segment the territory strategically to maximize sales opportunities.
• Conduct regular sales field visits with grower customers and prospects to promote Pivot Bio products.
• Build strong relationships with key decision-makers and influencers in agriculture.
• Recruit, onboard, and guide sales representatives in collaboration with Regional Distribution Managers
• Assist Sales Representatives in invoicing and collection initiatives including enrollment into Pivot Bio sponsored financing programs.
• Collaborate with commercial agronomists to introduce next-generation products and implement strategies to win back customers, ensuring alignment on agronomic solutions that drive customer satisfaction and business growth.
• Travel four days per week within the assigned territory to engage with customers.

Competencies

• Leadership: Ability to motivate, develop, and manage a sales team.
• Sales acumen: Proven experience in agricultural sales with a focus on independent inputs.
• Relationship-building: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage with key stakeholders.
• Strategic thinking: Ability to analyze market trends and data to inform decision-making.
• Territory management: Experience in managing and segmenting territories for effective coverage.
• Communication skills: Excellent verbal, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• CRM proficiency: Familiarity with CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Supervisory responsibilities

This position manages the territory’s distribution partners.

Work environment

Remote based – based upon territory supported.

Physical demands

• Ability to travel four days per week to meet with clients and perform fieldwork
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain
• Ability to lift 40 lbs.
• Frequent use of office equipment, such as computers and phones including which could include sitting, standing and repetitive motion of the hand and wrist

Travel required

This position will require travel 80% of the time within the assigned territory.

Required education and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience in the agriculture sector, preferably in biotech or agribusiness sales.
• Proven success in agricultural sales and team management.

Work Authorization

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

What We Offer

• Sales Incentive Bonus Plan
• Competitive package in a disruptive startup 
• Stock options 
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums 
• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies 
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts 
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match 
• Commuter benefits 
• Annual Training & Development support 
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team