Specification Sales Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

(Architectural & Design Sales – Quartz Surfaces)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Remote
Territory: IL
Reports To: Director of Sales

Position Summary

The Territory Specification Representative is responsible for developing, managing, and expanding Linnstone’s product specifications within the assigned territory. This role focuses on building strong relationships with architects, designers, builders, developers, and other specification influencers to drive demand for Linnstone quartz surfaces.

The ideal candidate has proven experience in specification sales within the hard surface or quartz industry, excels at relationship management and project tracking, and brings an entrepreneurial mindset to market development. This role requires strong organizational skills, proactive follow-up, and the ability to manage multiple projects from specification through conversion.

Compensation

·       Annual Base Salary: $60,000 – $75,000
(Based on experience and scope of responsibility)

·       Performance Bonus: Eligible for an annual performance-based bonus ranging from 5%–30% of base salary, based on achievement of specification activity, project conversion, and market development objectives

·       On-Target Earnings (OTE): $80,000 – $100,000+
(Base salary plus performance-based bonus; higher earnings potential for top performers)

·       Bonus eligibility and payout are determined annually based on performance against agreed-upon objectives and leadership review.

Key Responsibilities

Specification & Sales Development

• Drive project specifications and generate sales opportunities within the assigned territory
• Present Linnstone products to architectural, design, commercial, and builder audiences
• Identify, target, and develop new A&D and specification relationships
• Follow up on leads and referrals generated through field activity and industry engagement
• Track and manage project pipelines from specification to completion

Relationship Management & Customer Support

• Maintain and grow relationships with existing specification and design partners
• Provide timely customer support, including product information, samples, and technical guidance
• Ensure prompt responses to customer inquiries, quotes, and project-related requests
• Identify and resolve customer concerns while maintaining long-term partnerships

Marketing, Merchandising & Brand Development

• Maintain and update sample towers, sample libraries, and merchandising materials
• Develop and deliver presentations, product trainings, and promotional meetings
• Promote Linnstone brand awareness across A&D, fabricator, and design communities
• Monitor competitive products, market trends, and industry dynamics

Territory & Activity Management

• Develop action plans, schedules, and territory strategies aligned with business objectives
• Maintain accurate and timely CRM updates, reporting, and pipeline visibility
• Participate in assigned trade shows and industry organizations (NKBA, ASID, AIA, NARI)
• Submit weekly activity reports and communicate key insights to leadership

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• 5+ years of experience in specification sales within the quartz, stone, or hard surface industry
• Proven experience working with architects, designers, builders, developers, fabricators, and K/B dealers
• Background in fabrication, installation, kitchen & bath, or remodeling industries strongly preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field preferred (equivalent experience considered)

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills
• Excellent organizational, project management, and follow-up capabilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Self-motivated, results-driven, and comfortable working independently
• Collaborative team player with a professional, customer-focused mindset

Physical & Travel Requirements

• Ability to safely lift and move up to 50 pounds (samples and materials)
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and drive for extended periods
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and clean driving record
• Occasional overnight travel based on business needs

Work Environment

• Remote-based role with regular field activity
• Travel within assigned territory for customer meetings, presentations, and industry events

Linnstone is the leading supplier of high-quality premium quartz surfaces for residential and commercial applications with product ranges including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, splashbacks, wall panels, floorings, table tops and other interior surfaces. Linnstone maintains distribution centers across the United States and Australia. Linnstone prides itself on its ongoing commitment to research & development, innovation, customer service and high quality standards. Linnstone Quartz Surfaces are featured of promising enduring beauty, style, and strength, and have exceptional properties of impervious to stains, scratches and cracks, and highly heat and cold resistant. Our designers combine strong backgrounds in fine arts and advanced knowledge of modern production lines with experience to create designs with long-lasting beauty.