Director of Client Relations

Director of Client Relations (aka Director of Sales)

Location: Houston, TX

Sales Territory: Local radius

Full-time | Base Salary + Bonus | Comprehensive Benefits | Exceptional Culture

Salary range: 100 - 130k + bonus + perks

At Ernest, our people are the heart of our success and that includes our clients. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a Director of Client Relations to lead from the front. This is more than a sales leadership role; it’s about building deep relationships, championing a high‑performance team, and becoming the face of Ernest in your territory. We’re looking for a talented and driven sales leader who can inspire a team of Client Relationship Managers (CRMs), drive growth through new business development and account expansion, and create unforgettable client experiences along the way.

What You'll Do

• Lead and develop a territory sales team
• Motivate and manage a team of B2B Client Relationship Managers (aka outside sales reps)
• Drive performance, accountability, and professional development
• Coach your team on sales strategies, tools, and account planning
• Lead monthly sales meetings and conduct regular reviews to keep goals on track
• Act as the territory’s sales leader and brand ambassador
• Serve as the go‑to sales leader for your region—internally and externally
• Build authentic, lasting relationships with business clients
• Represent Ernest at appreciation events, sports outings, and client meetings
• Partner with supplier reps to drive value and strengthen relationships
• Drive new business and grow existing accounts
• Guide and support your CRMs as they hunt for new business and grow key accounts
• Equip your team to uncover client needs, deliver customized solutions, and build long‑term loyalty
• Coach CRMs to deepen account penetration and maximize GTM growth across their portfolios
• Be a strategic partner in removing roadblocks, navigating client challenges, and ensuring successful outcomes
• Lead with operational excellence
• Create and execute a yearly business plan focused on profitable growth
• Recommend process improvements to elevate the sales function
• Support company policies related to credit, collections, pricing, and more
• Approve pricing deviations and oversee sales promotions, campaigns, and contests

What You Bring

• Proven B2B outside sales success
• Experience managing and growing an outside B2B sales team
• Strong leadership, communication, and coaching abilities
• Track record of strategic thinking and operational execution
• Confidence in building rapport at all levels, from clients to colleagues
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Industry experience not required; we hire for potential and performance

Why Ernest?

We don’t just build sales teams; we build careers. Our culture is rooted in connection, development, and a shared belief that when one of us moves forward, we all move forward. You’ll be empowered to lead, equipped to succeed, and supported by a team that celebrates every win, big or small.