Director, Agricultural Field Sales - South

Why you should join us

At Sound Agriculture, we are revolutionizing the way the world grows food. Our innovative technology and solutions empower farmers to maximize nutrient efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and feed the world sustainably. Through a deeper understanding of plant and microbial biology, we are leveraging the natural power of plants to make agriculture more agile and resilient. If you're passionate about cutting-edge science, making a real-world impact, and being part of a team that's dedicated to transforming agriculture, we want you on our team!

Sound is a Series D startup funded by leading investors in food and agriculture including Leaps by Bayer, Syngenta Group Ventures, S2G Ventures, BMO Impact Investment Fund, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Fall Line Capital, Cavallo Ventures, FootPrint Coalition and Northpond Ventures.

What we're seeking

We are hiring a Director, Field Sales, to lead an existing team of Regional Sales Managers who sell our portfolio of nutrient-use efficiency products, with a specific emphasis on SOURCE and BLUEPRINT. The primary function of this position is to serve as an active sales coach and activator for their team. This translates to regular ride-alongs and windshield time to develop and refine sales skills, planning and preparing for sales calls, and regular team meetings to enhance collaboration and learning. The Director, Field Sales is a critical addition to the company's commercial leadership team owning all revenue targets within their assigned region. This role works closely with Sales Leadership, Marketing, Product, and Agronomy to drive revenue, product performance, and retention for the company.

This role assumes immediate leadership of an existing team located in NE, KS, TX, AR, and MO. The Director, Field Sales is a remote position based in the south region (ideally in KS, NE, AR or MO) and requires 40%+ travel. Candidates must reside in one of the states within the assigned territory to be considered for this position.

Compensation Target

$200,000 to $225,000 on-target earnings ($150,000 to $165,000 base salary, plus $50,000 to $60,000 variable commission target). Commission targets are uncapped and measured by sales against quota, with accelerators that increase commission to 125% above target. Commissions are earned and paid annually.

Sound reserves the ability to adjust the compensation range based on the final candidate's experience, skillset, and geography. In addition to on target earnings, we offer above average equity grants for the industry.

Responsibilities

Sales Team Leadership and Development (70%)

• Build and develop a best-in-class sales team by recruiting, training, and mentoring high-performing sales professionals.
• Manage employee performance by creating clear expectations and coaching individuals on skill gaps.
• Conduct annual performance reviews and quarterly check-ins.
• Perform weekly/bi-weekly 1-on-1s to provide support, guidance on forecasting, pipeline management, and dealer activation.
• Conduct regular coaching sessions and monthly ride-alongs to offer real-time feedback.

Sales Strategy and Execution (20%)

• Meet or exceed team sales goals for nutrient efficiency products.
• Provide hands-on support for deal strategy and tactics, and actively participate in closing deals.
• Build and manage relationships with key dealers.
• Ensure dealer and customer retention, growth, and increased use of products on the farm.

Cross-functional collaboration (10%)

• Collaborate with Marketing to create content and launch campaigns.
• Collaborate with Technical Agronomy and Product Management to share field feedback and pilot new products.
• Collaborate with Sustainability to align on local programs and opportunities.

Targeted Skills & Experience

• Considerable experience in sales management, including recruiting, hiring, training, and mentoring.
• Demonstrated success achieving sales and revenue targets in the crop inputs space.
• Established network within agriculture reseller networks, agronomic consultants, and ag retail.
• Demonstrated knowledge of sales methodology, tools, and techniques.
• Experience introducing and selling product lines in new markets.
• Knowledge or training in Agronomy, Plant Science, Marketing, Agri-business, or related field.
• Experience partnering with cross-functional teams.
• Strong working knowledge of Google Workspace, Salesforce, Slack, and Zoom.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Non-negotiables

• Proven leadership skills in motivating sales teams and achieving revenue growth.
• Strong relationship-building abilities with agricultural dealers and stakeholders.
• Expertise in sales strategy development and execution.
• Effective collaboration and communication skills.
• Analytical and data-driven decision-making capabilities.
• Adaptability, resilience, and ethical conduct.

What we offer

• Opportunity to work in an incredible team with a drive to build alternative solutions to age-old practices.
• Competitive total rewards package including base compensation, performance bonus or uncapped commission, and above-market equity.
• Comprehensive health care plans (Medical, Dental, Vision).
• Flex Spending Account and Health Savings Account with employer contribution.
• 401(k) with 3% company match.
• Flexible time off policy.
• Mental health and wellbeing benefits.
• Paid parental leave.
• Regular events and engagement activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sound Agriculture seeks a diverse pool of applicants and considers all qualified candidates regardless of race, ancestry, color, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability, Veteran status, marital status, or any other protected status. Sound participates in E-Verify.