Kevin Raftery
Downers Grove,IL
Summary
Accomplished sales executive with a proven track record of driving significant revenue growth at Follett School Solutions, achieving $5.8 million in sales and earning prestigious President’s Club Honors. Expertise in leveraging CRM software to enhance sales strategies and streamline processes, resulting in increased efficiency and customer satisfaction. Demonstrated ability to cultivate strong customer relationships, fostering loyalty and repeat business. Committed to delivering exceptional results through innovative solutions and a customer-centric approach.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Consultant
Follett Content Solutions
10.2019 - Current
- Execute sales of Classroom & Library Solutions to K-12 School Districts
- Earned President’s Club Honors for Sales in 2022
- Assisted School Administrators in building comprehensive Opening Day Library Collections for six new schools in 2024
- Achieved $5.8 million in sales for 2024
- Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities and inform sales approaches.
- Conducted product demonstrations, showcasing features and benefits to potential clients effectively.
- Developed tailored sales strategies to meet client needs and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and improve service delivery.
Customer Service Manager
Binny’s Beverage Depot
06.2017 - 10.2019
- Over See front-end operations of store
- Manage team of front-end employees
- Beer Consultant/Buyer
- Worked with several distributors to maintain inventory
- Planned quarterly Tasting Events to generate revenue
- Led customer service team to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty initiatives.
- Developed training programs for staff to improve service efficiency and product knowledge.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering a culture of excellence in customer service delivery.
Owner
R.A.K. Apparel
01.2013 - 01.2017
- Designed e-commerce web site to promote/sell Apparel
- Partnered with Chicago & SW Suburban retail stores to carry RAK Apparel
- Managed financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting to ensure profitability and sustainability.
- Developed comprehensive business strategies to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Implemented marketing initiatives that increased brand visibility and customer engagement across multiple channels.
- Organized Charitable Events to sell Apparel
Owner
Great Lakes Event Planning, Inc.
01.2008 - 01.2012
- Planned Corporate Events for companies such as Chicago Sun Times, Dell Computers, & Adidas
- Responsible for all aspects of business including web site creation, sales, & Execution of Events
- Developed strategic business plans to enhance operational efficiency and market presence.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
- Managed budgeting and financial forecasting to optimize resource allocation.
Senior Account Executive
New Horizons, LLC
01.2006 - 01.2008
- Responsible for new sales of Corporate training solutions
- Brought in over $300k in new revenue in ’07
- Developed and implemented strategic account plans to drive revenue growth and enhance client relationships.
- Led cross-functional teams to deliver customized solutions aligned with client objectives and market trends.
Senior Account Executive
Premiere Global Services
01.2000 - 01.2006
- Earned ‘Rookie of the Year’ Award for Top Sales in ’00
- Earned “President’s Club” in ’03 with 120% of Quota
- Analyzed market data to identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling within existing accounts.
Education
Interpersonal Communication, Spanish
Western Michigan University
MISkills
- Effective negotiation abilities
- Proficient in CRM software
- Client relationship management
- Strong organizational skills
- Results-driven approach
- Focused lead generation
- Sales pipeline management
- Cold calling proficiency
- Sales strategy development
- Account management
- Pipeline management
- Data-driven sales forecasting
- Regional account management
- Interdepartmental teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- CRM proficiency
- Objection handling
- Prospecting skills
- Effective closing techniques
- Consultative sales
- Cold calling
Timeline
Sales Consultant
Follett Content Solutions
10.2019 - Current
Customer Service Manager
Binny’s Beverage Depot
06.2017 - 10.2019
Owner
R.A.K. Apparel
01.2013 - 01.2017
Owner
Great Lakes Event Planning, Inc.
01.2008 - 01.2012
Senior Account Executive
New Horizons, LLC
01.2006 - 01.2008
Senior Account Executive
Premiere Global Services
01.2000 - 01.2006
Interpersonal Communication, Spanish
Western Michigan University