Brand Ambassador (Central Illinois)

Kering Eyewear, part of the global Luxury group Kering, is the most relevant player in the Luxury Eyewear market segment. We design, develop, manufacture, and distribute eyewear that blends creativity, innovation, and quality. Our portfolio spans a wide range of iconic brands including Gucci, Cartier, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, McQueen, Valentino, Chloé, Alaïa, Montblanc, Dunhill, Puma, and our proprietary brands LINDBERG, Maui Jim, and Zeal Optics. By combining industry expertise with a commitment to sustainability, we help our brands redefine design and craft eyewear that captivates consumers worldwide.

At Maui Jim, you can expect, a unique culture, a well-known brand, and the opportunity to grow with a company that has a great reputation. We offer an inclusive, collaborative and “high touch” work environment that values the members of our ‘Ohana. We work hard to develop our leaders who in turn develop their team members to reach their full potential, and we are committed to building a team that focuses on solid customer service.

If you would like to be part of an amazing adventure that is Maui Jim, check our current job openings and browse the site to learn more about our culture, benefits , and our Maui Jim 'Ohana! Aloha~

Location: Peoria, Bloomington, Springfield
Territory: Central Illinois
Base Salary: $60,000 - $65,000 plus commission

Position Summary

The Brand Ambassador serves as the primary sales, relationship, and brand representative for Maui Jim and ZEAL Optics within an assigned territory. This field-based role is responsible for driving revenue growth, increasing brand visibility, developing strategic partnerships, and delivering exceptional customer experiences across independent optical accounts, specialty retailers, sporting goods stores, and key regional partners.

The Brand Ambassador acts as a trusted business consultant to customers by leveraging market insights, territory analytics, product expertise, and training programs to strengthen customer performance and expand market share. Success in this role requires a proactive approach to territory management, prospecting, account development, and consistent execution of sales strategies.

The essential responsibilities and duties of this position are:

- Drive sales growth and achieve territory objectives for Maui Jim and ZEAL Optics through strategic account management and new business development.
- Identify, prospect, and convert new customers while expanding opportunities within existing accounts.
- Build strong relationships with key customers and serve as the primary point of contact for assigned accounts.
- Conduct regular customer visits, business reviews, product presentations, and sales training sessions.
- Educate customers on brand products, technologies, merchandising standards, and selling techniques.
- Develop and execute territory plans to maximize market penetration and customer engagement.
- Maintain accurate records of customer interactions, opportunities, and activities using CRM and reporting tools.
- Analyze sales performance, market trends, and competitive activity to identify growth opportunities.
- Represent Maui Jim and ZEAL Optics at trade shows, customer events, and industry functions.
- Partner with Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Operations, and Training teams to support business objectives and enhance the customer experience.

- Perform other work-related tasks as requested or required.

What You'll Bring

- Experience in sales, account management, retail, optical, or other customer-facing roles.
- Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage a territory effectively.
- Passion for customer service, business development, and premium brands.
- Ability and willingness to travel throughout the assigned territory.

Why Join Us?

At Maui Jim and ZEAL Optics, you'll represent premium eyewear brands known for innovation, craftsmanship, and an active outdoor lifestyle. Join a team where you can make a direct impact, build lasting customer relationships, and help drive business growth in your market.

Desired Qualifications

Education & Experience

- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field preferred. Equivalent combinations of education, training, and relevant experience will be considered.
- Minimum 2-3 years of successful outside sales, account management, or customer-facing experience required.
- Experience in the optical, eyewear, sunglass, fashion accessory, sporting goods, or related consumer products industry preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

- Proven sales, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
- Strong verbal, written, presentation, and communication abilities.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and effectively manage an assigned territory.
- Strong organizational, planning, and time-management skills.
- Ability to learn new products, systems, and business processes quickly.
- Adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Professional presence with a customer-focused mindset.
- Willingness and ability to travel extensively, including overnight travel as business needs require.
- Demonstrates the Maui Jim "Aloha Spirit" through positive, collaborative, and service-oriented interactions.

Working Conditions

- Frequent travel throughout the assigned territory.
- Regular customer-facing and field-based sales activities.
- Overnight travel required based on business needs.
- Ability to transport and present product samples, displays, and marketing materials.

Work Shift:
1st Shift (United States of America)

Special Language Requirement (If Applicable):

Salary is only one component of total compensation at Maui Jim! You will also gain an amazing benefits package. Rounding out our benefits and compensation is our Aloha culture work environment.

Benefits Included:

- Low Insurance Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Accounts (with Company Match)
- Short Term and Long-Term Disability
- Voluntary Critical Illness, and Accident Coverages
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Paid Paternity and Maternity Leave
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Company Paid Life AD&D Insurance
- Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance
- 401K Match
- Paid Bereavement
- Employee Assistance Program

The benefits listed above apply to U.S. roles and may vary by state or country.

Compensation and benefits are determined based on several factors, including job level, market location, job-related knowledge and skills, individual performance, and experience. All plans are subject to eligibility requirements.