Director of Client Relations

For over 78 years, Ernest has been committed to the success of our extended family, our customers, our employees, and the packaging industry itself. When you work with Ernest, you’ll enjoy the advantages of learning proven methods of success, a proactive approach, and having fun while earning what you’re worth with a lot of really awesome people.

Director of Client Relations (aka Director of Sales)
Location: Bakersfield, CA
Sales Territory: 100 miles local radius
Full-time | Base Salary + Bonus | Comprehensive Benefits | Exceptional Culture
Salary range: 100 - 130k

At Ernest, our people are the heart of our success and that includes our clients. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a Director of Client Relations to lead from the front. This is more than a sales leadership role—it’s about building deep relationships, championing a high-performance team, and becoming the face of Ernest in your territory. We’re looking for a talented and driven sales leader who can inspire a team of Client Relationship Managers (CRMs), drive growth through new business development and account expansion, and create unforgettable client experiences along the way. You know how to lead in every setting—from boardrooms to BBQs, ballgames to cold call walk-ins—and you make clients feel like partners and teams feel unstoppable. If that’s your style, you’ll fit right in at Ernest.

What You'll Do: 

Lead and Develop a Territory Sales Team 

• Motivate and manage a team of B2B Client Relationship Managers (aka outside sales reps)
• Drive performance, accountability, and professional development
• Coach your team in sales strategies, tools, and account planning
• Lead monthly sales meetings and conduct regular reviews to keep goals on track

Act as the Territory’s Sales Leader and Brand Ambassador 

• Serve as the go-to sales leader for your region—internally and externally
• Build authentic, lasting relationships with business clients
• Represent Ernest at appreciation events, sports outings, and client meetings
• Partner with supplier reps to drive value and strengthen relationships

Drive New Business and Grow Existing Accounts 

• Guide and support your Client Relationship Managers as they hunt for new business and grow key accounts
• Equip your team to uncover client needs, deliver customized solutions, and build long-term loyalty
• Coach CRMs to deepen account penetration and maximize GTM growth across their portfolios
• Be a strategic partner in removing roadblocks, navigating client challenges, and ensuring successful outcomes

Lead with Operational Excellence 

• Create and execute a yearly business plan focused on profitable growth
• Recommend process improvements to elevate the sales function
• Support company policies related to credit, collections, pricing, and more
• Approve pricing deviations and oversee sales promotions, campaigns, and contests

What You Bring

• Proven B2B outside sales success
• Experience managing and growing an outside B2B sales team
• Strong leadership, communication, and coaching abilities
• Track record of strategic thinking and operational execution
• Confidence in building rapport at all levels—from clients to colleagues
• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
• Industry experience not required—we hire for potential and performance

Why Ernest? 

We don’t just build sales teams, we build careers. Our culture is rooted in connection, development, and a shared belief that when one of us moves forward, we all move forward. You’ll be empowered to lead, equipped to succeed, and supported by a team that celebrates every win—big or small.

Let’s build something great together.

Wanna see what makes us awesome? Hit play on our latest videos:

Newest Company Video with Keanu Reeves!

Watch us make a cardboard skateboard with Tony Hawk!

Ernest is a nationwide company, but did you know that our humble roots started in a Los Angeles garage? Brothers Ernie and Charles Wilson founded the company in 1946 with a dedication to customized service. Even after decades of delivering great packaging to our customers, that commitment has never changed. We always find the best solution to fit our customers’ needs, even if we have to invent it!