Director of Sales

Civista BankDescription:Position Purpose:The Director of Sales is responsible for developing and executing the overall sales strategy of the leasing company to achieve portfolio growth, profitability, and market expansion objectives. This position provides leadership and direction to the sales team, drives new business development initiatives, strengthens client and referral partner relationships, and ensures alignment with the company's strategic goals, risk appetite, and credit standards.The Director of Sales serves as a key member of the leadership team and works closely with credit, operations, finance, and marketing teams to deliver exceptional customer experience while generating sustainable growth.Requirements:Description of Duties, Responsibilities and ExpectationsStrategic LeadershipDevelop and implement short- and long-term sales strategies aligned with corporate objectives.Establish annual sales goals, production targets, and market expansion plans.Monitor industry trends, competitive activity, economic conditions, and customer needs to identify growth opportunities.Recommend and execute initiatives to increase market share and profitability.Sales ManagementLead, coach, and develop a high-performing sales team.Establish performance expectations, sales metrics, and accountability standards.Conduct regular pipeline reviews, forecasting sessions, and performance evaluations.Recruit, hire, train, and retain top sales talent.Foster a sales culture focused on collaboration, accountability, customer service, and results.Business DevelopmentDevelop and maintain relationships with customers, vendors, manufacturers, brokers, referral sources, and strategic partners.Identify and pursue new business opportunities within target industries and markets.Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and trade associations.Portfolio Growth and ProfitabilityMonitor sales performance against established goals and recommend corrective actions as needed.Collaborate with credit and operations teams to balance growth objectives with sound underwriting practices.Ensure pricing, structure, and transaction terms meet profitability requirements.Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Credit, Operations, Risk Management, Marketing, and Finance teams to improve sales processes and customer experience.Collaborate on product development and market positioning strategies.Support process improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and scalability.

Reporting and AnalyticsDevelop sales forecasts and performance reports for executive management and the Board of Directors.Analyze sales trends, pipeline activity, and portfolio performance.Utilize data-driven insights to improve sales effectiveness and decision-making.Compliance and Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, company policies, and leasing industry standards.Promote adherence to credit policies and risk management practices.Maintain strong internal controls and support audit and regulatory activities as needed.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesDirectly supervise sales team.Responsible for hiring, coaching, performance management, succession planning, and talent development within the sales organization.Qualifications, Knowledge and SkillsBachelor's degree in business administration, Finance, Marketing, Economics, or a related field preferredMinimum of 10 years of progressive sales experience, including significant leadership experience within equipment leasing, commercial finance, banking, or a related financial services industry.Demonstrated success leading high-performing sales teams and achieving growth objectives.Strong financial, credit, and business acumen.Experience within a bank-owned leasing company.Industry certifications related to leasing or commercial finance.Established industry relationships and referral network.Exceptional leadership, coaching, and relationship management skills.Strong business development and negotiation abilities.Adva