Account Executive Technology (Higher Education Market Focus)

Ispace Environments

The Role

Overview

Manages and grows higher‑education tech accounts, driving sales and solutions.

Key Responsibilities

  • proposal development
  • pricing review
  • solution design
  • account management
  • client liaison
  • revenue growth

Tasks

-In collaboration with other departments to develop annual key account plans, annual team forecasts as well as weekly reporting -Communicate and negotiate all financial terms and conditions of a project with the external customer, based on the company’s standard terms and agreements -Collaborates with Engineering to create solutions that position iSpace to win the business -Develop and execute sales strategies tailored to the Higher Education market, focusing on technology integration for classrooms, hybrid learning environments, and administrative spaces -Acts as second set of eyes to ensure pricing is accurate and that prospect is a good fit for iSpace that will result in profitable business -Maintain an in-depth understanding of assigned client’s business model, business plans, building expansion/improvement plans and technology strategies; communicate unique aspects of client to internal teams -Acts as key liaison with upper-level external customers and partners (architectural firms, building management, General Contractors, Project Management firms, etc.) during project initiation, solutions presentation and problem-solving phases of project -Negotiate resource allocation and project prioritization issues -Generates proposals for existing customer new business opportunities -Provide direction to the ideation process and oversee project progress -Develop strategies and approaches to expand contacts and create new revenue streams within clients -Partner with internal teams to understand cost drivers and best practices that will drive improvements in profitability and throughput -Identifies growth opportunities within clients and markets, and creates strategies for winning new business; -Partners with the Management Team to develop solutions and services that drive client revenue and profitability; -Maintain awareness of trends in campus technology, AV modernization, and digital learning spaces to position iSpace as a thought leader within higher education -Expand existing business contracts by finding ways to increase account deliverables: design services, facility planning, research, technology trends, business trends, support needs, service reporting, training, system assessments, etc.to gain larger share of clients’ total facilities/technology budget(s) -Oversees and evaluates projects for existing customers based on requests from the external customer, while providing specific and sufficient information via a comprehensive Scope of Work (SOW) for the internal customers; Engineers, Field Services Manager, Project Manager, Programmer, and Field Technicians; if applicable. (Approves SOW) -Participates in conversation about what RFP’s NBD should pursue based on defined criteria of the right client and the right project. -Supports New Business Development and ensures successful transition of new customers to client service teams. -Review and approve proposals and invoices for accuracy and profit margins prior to submittal to customer -Implement and oversee annual iSpace account reviews with key clients (how are we doing, where can we improve and what else can we assist them with) -Create strategies to build iSpace’s reputation as a partner that provides solutions, not transactions -Build and maintain long-term relationships with universities, colleges, and other academic leaders by understanding their capital planning cycles, funding models, and IT infrastructure priorities -Collaborate with internal teams to design and present AV and technology solutions that enhance student engagement, teaching environments, and campus connectivity initiatives -Responsible for all aspects of assigned account team performance for project delivery and financial results -Monitor competitive landscape, clients’ business climate and industry trends -Responsible for overall client relationship and account growth / performance -Provides direction and motivation for the effective creation and design of technology solutions on behalf of clients; -Develop ongoing client relationships at management levels -Represent iSpace at higher education industry conferences and associations (e.g., EDUCAUSE, NACUBO) to expand brand visibility and partnerships -Drives account growth by identifying and pursuing new divisions or facilities within existing clients -Recognize variances, or potential variances, and address as appropriate -Ensure consistency between teams and sharing of best practices -Support New Business Development (NBD) -Serve as a Steward of iSpace Core Values and Brand -Leverage the Director of Operations to ensure training and process standards are met across the team -Ensures development of additional revenue streams within company margin expectations -Partners with NBD to ensure the successful transition of new customers to client service teams. -Manage Client Service Specific Responsibilities:

Requirements

  • highered
  • cts certification
  • 7+ yrs
  • business degree
  • team leadership
  • tech aptitude

What You Bring

-Must have established knowledge of and relationships within the Higher Education market — including familiarity with decision-makers, procurement processes, and capital project stakeholders. Proven ability to develop technology solutions aligned with higher education goals such as learning innovation, sustainability, and campus modernization. -Strong aptitude for technology -Ability to acquire CTS certification within two years of placement -Internal candidates: in depth understanding of iSpace’s core values, offerings and internal operations, and a proven track record of strong customer relationship management and financial acumen typically gained by 5+ years with iSpace or in the industry. -Must have an exceptional ability to guide teams, influence projects and drive results -Willingness and ability to work beyond 40 hours per week during peak periods to ensure client needs are met -Must have proven ability to drive growth and profitability and lead / influence teams -Ability to travel up to 20% -External candidates: 7+ years of industry experience, or 7+ years of demonstrated success managing and growing client accounts and leading teams. CTS certification preferred. Degree in business or marketing; strong customer relationship experience and financial acumen required.

Benefits

-We Are OWNERS: We are 100% employee owned. We think and act like owners, making every decision count for our collective success. -Floating Holidays -Company-Paid Life and Disability Coverage -Comprehensive Paid Time Off (PTO) -401(k) Retirement Plan -Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) -We have FUN: Having fun is part of our work experience. We bring our culture to life by enjoying ourselves and each . -Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

The Company

About Ispace Environments

-Began by refurbishing panel systems and storage to reduce landfill and serve corporate clients. -Expanded into audio/visual solutions through MSpace (launched 2002), then merged furniture, tech and architectural divisions in 2017. -Operates multiple locations across Minnesota and Iowa, with newly opened showrooms reflecting steady regional growth. -Acquired an automotive division in 2019. -Typical projects include corporate interiors like integrative medicine centers, auto dealerships, and advanced meeting spaces. -Specializes in integrated workplace environments combining architectural products, furniture, technology and professional services.

Sector Specialisms

Commercial

Office

Technology

Audio/Visual

Low Voltage

Architectural Walls

Furniture

Installation