National Account Manager I

National Account Manager I - Ace Hardware

The National Account Manager I is responsible for supporting the day to day sales operations for Ace Hardware, serving as the primary liaison to support profitable growth and operational excellence. This role leverages strong analytical skills to interpret sales data, inventory, and overall product and program data, ensuring accurate and timely management of all information within Ace’s customer portals. High proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and other Microsoft 365 applications is essential for developing actionable insights and reporting that support both internal teams and Ace Hardware initiatives.

This is an in office role and requires monthly travel to Chicago for business reviews and collaboration with Ace teams.

Essential Job Functions

Analytical & Sales Operations Leadership

• Analyzes customer POS, inventory, and category data to manage daily sales operations and drive organic growth within Ace Hardware.
• Prepares sales forecasts, quotas, and strategic plans in partnership with the Director of National Accounts.
• Supports and participates in quarterly business updates with Ace Hardware, providing data backed insights, SKU rationalization opportunities, and new item recommendations.
• Supports and participates in line reviews and annual business reviews using fact based selling and category analytics.
• Ensures accurate, timely updates of all Ace Hardware customer portal data, reporting, and item maintenance.
  
  

Account Management & Collaboration

• Works closely with Ace and Hillman teams to support program setup, new business rollouts, and ongoing account initiatives.
• Maintains strong working knowledge of Hillman products, services, and field operations to support account needs.
• Partners with marketing to develop promotional programs, plan o grams, and support logistics for special events.
  
  

Team Leadership & Communication

• Communicates regularly with field service and sales personnel to share updates, resolve issues, and enhance execution.
• Builds and maintains effective partnerships with internal departments and Ace Hardware counterparts.
  
  

Logistics & Travel

• Travels monthly to Chicago for meetings with Ace Hardware.
• Participates in trade shows, customer events, and conventions as required.
• Cell allowance provided.
• Expected to follow safe driving practices and comply with company travel policies.
  
  

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5–7 years of experience in big-box retail or consumer products.
• Strong background in data analysis, sales operations, or national account management.
  
  

Competencies – Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical capability with the ability to interpret data and translate it into actionable insights.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft 365 applications.
• Strong communication, presentation, and consultative selling skills.
• Collaborative mindset with entrepreneurial drive and results orientation.
  
  

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Work Environment

Office Office setting. Seldom exposed to fumes or airborne particles. Loud working environment of the shop area. Functional vision and hearing required.

Physical Demands

Office Sedentary.

The Hillman Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, protected veteran or military status, genetic information, citizenship status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity and maintain employment statistics on applicants.