Sales Associate

**SALES ASSOCIATE (TRAINEE PROGRAM)**International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global leader in packaging and paper with manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, Russia, Asia and North Africa. Its businesses include industrial and consumer packaging and uncoated papers.Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., the company employs approximately 52,000 people and is strategically located in more than 24 countries serving customers worldwide.International Paper’s vision is to be one of the best and most respected companies in the world. A company of substance in everything we do, from the products we make, to investing in communities, to protecting our environment, International Paper supports communities where our employees live and work.We currently have several openings for a Sales Associate at our corrugated manufacturing plants in Mexico. These facilities manufacture and sell corrugated packaging products for local and national customers.This position will be expected to travel overnight to plants, trade shows, training sessions and customers. The location for these openings will be determined at a later date based on business need.The Sales Associate will be responsible for understanding the business, including both operational and commercial aspects in order to perform analytical work and make recommendations to Sales and Plant General Managers regarding commercial and/or operational strategies for the assigned location(s). This role may also be responsible for a limited number of accounts. Upon successful integration with and understanding of industry and business segment, sales associates will be expected to take on responsibility for full territory management, including growing assigned target accounts and prospecting new accounts in the local market.This role is responsible for preparing for and making sales calls and securing orders for IP goods or services. This work is customarily and regularly performed away from the primary place of business. Specific duties include: providing insights for developing customer value propositions; analyzing and providing timely feedback on market and business conditions; initiating and completing customer and competitive analysis; identifying new business opportunities; recommending sales solutions; obtaining and maintaining knowledge of all aspects of the container industry including priority customers, operational practices, customer supply channels, service expectations and financial requirements.**Key Accountabilities**:- Achieve sales targets with assigned accounts by partnering with customers in a consultative relationship that maximizes value for the customer and profitability for International Paper- Build new business and grow assigned territory by prospecting sales opportunities, attracting the interest of potential customers, networking to build a contact base, and following up with leads- Leverage IP’s value proposition to sell a profitable mix of corrugated products to targeted customers- Develop a working knowledge of the corrugated box industry and business operation- Review new product developments and sales techniques on an ongoing basis.- Develop a complete and comprehensive technical knowledge of all business products relevant to your market or territory- Support all company policies. Foster a positive and safe working environment for fellow employees and customers- Other duties as assigned**Required Knowledge and Experience**:- BA/BS degree with a focus in Professional Sales or a related field or a BA/BS degree and 2 to 4 years of solution selling experience required or equivalent industry specific customer service or marketing experience- A strong general knowledge of business and customer service- Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills- Bilingual- Active visa- Some sales experience**Required Competencies**:Customer FocusOrganizational AgilityDrive for ResultsAction OrientedOrganizingPriority SettingInternational Paper offers a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package. This is a great opportunity to start a career with a dynamic and proven manufacturer in the packaging industry.International Paper is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age or any other characteristic protected by law.