Opportunity
The Director-Sales Training and Events is responsible for developing a Sales Training Center of Excellence in Kitchen and Bath North America by creating and executing a comprehensive training strategy that enhances the sales team’s skills, knowledge, and performance. The primary focus of this individual is collaborating and aligning with Field Sales, Marketing, Category teams, the Showroom and Kohler Signature Store teams, and Sustainability teams on strategy, resources, budgets, metrics execution, evaluation, results and ROI. This role will also oversee the planning and execution of sales-related events, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and a focus on driving revenue growth. This candidate is a Subject Matter Expert in adult learning and curriculum design, and will have a strong background in sales training, event management, and leadership.
Specific Responsibilities
Lead the ideation and development of strategic training and development paths relevant to all KBNA Channels, Customers and Contractor Partners.Develop technical product training tailored for different audiences, from entry-level employees to seasoned professionals. Partner with product managers, engineering, and marketing to translate complex plumbing solutions into practical, compelling training materials.Lead the team to design and develop training materials and programs, applying adult learning principles and systematic instructional design to create a learning curriculum that best fits the needs of the marketing and sales associates and Kohler’s external audience.Lead event planning team to create five-diamond experiences for customers including customer experience trips, Packer Suite, Fiserv Forum suite and other Kohler events.Launch and operate an onsite training center in the Pottery that can be used for product training, sales training, customer training and events, and public relations events. Oversee the planning and execution of sales events, including product launches, sales conferences, workshops, and team-building activities, ensuring they are engaging and effective.Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of training programs and events. Analyze feedback and performance data to continuously improve offerings.Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Category Management and Marketing and Product Development, to ensure training content is relevant and aligned with the company’s strategic initiatives.Oversee in-person and digital learning strategies (e.g., LMS platforms, webinars, video training, certifications).Plan, coordinate, and execute trade shows, customer-facing events, product demos, roadshows, and training summits. Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to ensure events align with brand messaging, product launches, and strategic initiatives.Lead, mentor, and develop a team of training specialists and event coordinators. Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture within the team.Develop and manage the budget for training and events, ensuring efficient allocation of resources while maximizing impact.Keep abreast of industry trends, best practices, and new technologies in sales training and event management to drive innovation and effectiveness.Travel to trade shows, manufacturing plants, and customer visits as needed, approximately 50-60%.