Gretchen R. Theissen
Architectural Sales/Business Development
Cincinnati,OH
Summary
Business Development Sales Representative who excels in client relationship building and fostering long-lasting partnerships. Skilled at demonstrating products and closing sales with tenacious as well as a driven approach that consistently exceeding sales expectations. Talented networker with expertise in cold calling, strategic planning and task prioritization focused on maximizing efficiency and sales success.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Development/A & D Rep/Sales, A & D Market
Patterson Pope (Complex Storage Solutions)
Cincinnati, OH
10.2015 - 02.2025
- Teamed with territory sales reps to maximize short and long term growth in sales volume, gross profit and industry position within each of the major geography markets.
- Actively tracked leads and projects in Salesforce CRM program within territory to secure multi-product specifications during early stages of design development.
- Increased sales volume by utilizing sales report such as Dodge, business journals, state facilities commissions, social media to stay informed of upcoming projects with current/new architectural/engineering firms
- Managed a diverse portfolio of clients, ensuring that each received tailored solutions aligned with their specific requirements.
- Spearheaded innovative marketing strategies to elevate brand awareness and attract potential clients.
- Conducted thorough market research to identify emerging trends and capitalize on potential opportunities for growth.
- Responsible for exceeding territory growth goals and management of increasing A & D client base in 7 major geographic locations traveling multiple days a week
Business Development Director
APG Office Furnishings (Herman Miller)
Cincinnati, OH
10.2013 - 02.2015
- Performed client research and identified opportunities for account growth, account penetration and market expansion.
- Completed and submitted monthly and yearly reports to support executive decision making.
- Kept meticulous client notes and updated account information in company databases.
- Consistently exceeded quotas through penetration of new accounts.
- Cultivated a strong network of industry contacts, leading to increased collaboration and referral opportunities.
- Increased client base by implementing strategic business development initiatives and fostering long-lasting partnerships.
- Mentored junior team members, facilitating their professional growth and increasing overall team performance.
Business Development/Marketing/Sales
United Group Services (Industrial Market/Service)
Cincinnati, OH
04.2011 - 09.2013
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic working within a very specific industry marketplace
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written across multiple platforms and gatekeeper situations
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations in a safety forward technical industry
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment calling on industrial plant environments
- Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service in a highly regulated industry
Director of Operations
Dan Binford & Associates (Multiple Line Rep)
Cincinnati, OH
03.2007 - 02.2011
- Oversaw daily operations across multiple departments, ensuring seamless coordination and efficient execution of tasks.
- Defined, implemented, and revised operational policies and guidelines.
- Negotiated with vendors, suppliers and other stakeholders to acquire mutually beneficial contracts and agreement.
- Designed and implemented successful operational strategies and policies to drive organizational growth and productivity.
- Managed showroom facility, coordinated all customer sample requests and executed customer promotional events
- Gathered, input and coordinated all accounting/payroll administration with professional finance firms
CEO/Owner
LightLeap Solutions (Marketing/BD/PR Consultant)
Cincinnati, OH
09.1999 - 02.2008
- Managed partnerships and strategic business relationships by negotiating contract terms and handling conflicts.
- Established new revenue streams by identifying market opportunities and launching innovative products or services.
- Nurtured key strategic partnerships that resulted in enhanced product offerings and expanded customer base.
- Achieved company growth by implementing strategic plans.
- Conducted market research for clients and provided comprehensive action plans specific to their industry
- Designed and implemented public relations strategic plans for clients
Principal In Charge-Marketing/Business Development Manager
Elements IV Interiors (Haworth)
Covington, KY
03.1997 - 06.1999
- Optimized marketing efforts by conducting thorough market research and competitor analysis.
- Boosted sales revenue by identifying opportunities for cross-selling and upselling existing clients.
- Championed innovative marketing ideas, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and driving business growth.
- Generated new business leads by establishing partnerships with industry influencers and key stakeholders.
- Led a high-performing team of sales representatives, fostering a collaborative environment meeting and exceeding sales goals.
Director of Marketing/Business Development
MSA Architects (Architectural/Design Services)
Cincinnati, OH
03.1992 - 02.1997
- Conducted competitor analysis to identify market opportunities and inform strategic planning efforts.
- Developed compelling marketing materials for various channels, resulting in increased brand awareness and customer engagement.
- Mentored junior team members, providing guidance on best practices and professional growth opportunities.
- Organized promotional events including tradeshows, creating memorable experiences for potential clients while showcasing company services.
- Increased brand recognition by developing and implementing targeted marketing campaigns.
- Evaluated partnership/RFP proposals from vendors or agencies to determine alignment with each project's business goals.
- Built strong relationships with industry influencers, expanding the company''s reach within target markets.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Interior Design
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL 05.2001 -
Skills
Strategic Business Development
Sales Expertise
Strategic Lead Development
Market Research
Territory Management
Retention Strategy Development
Client Service
Public Speaking/Presentations
Event Planning/Tradeshows
Proficient in CRM Software
Affiliations
AIA
SMPS
IIDA
Timeline
Business Development/A & D Rep/Sales, A & D Market
Patterson Pope (Complex Storage Solutions)
10.2015 - 02.2025
Business Development Director
APG Office Furnishings (Herman Miller)
10.2013 - 02.2015
Business Development/Marketing/Sales
United Group Services (Industrial Market/Service)
04.2011 - 09.2013
Director of Operations
Dan Binford & Associates (Multiple Line Rep)
03.2007 - 02.2011
Bachelor of Science - Interior Design
The University of Alabama
05.2001 -
CEO/Owner
LightLeap Solutions (Marketing/BD/PR Consultant)
09.1999 - 02.2008
Principal In Charge-Marketing/Business Development Manager
Elements IV Interiors (Haworth)
03.1997 - 06.1999
Director of Marketing/Business Development
MSA Architects (Architectural/Design Services)
03.1992 - 02.1997
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