Operations and Inside Sales Specialist

Position Summary Kowa American Corporation is seeking an organized, detail-oriented Operations and Inside Sales Specialist to support sample coordination, customer purchase orders, inventory management, and customer and product data maintenance. This position will also assist with sales follow-up, accounting coordination, and marketing activities as workload permits. Key Responsibilities Maintain the sample database, coordinate timely sample delivery, and gather initial customer feedback on product evaluations and potential demand. Review customer purchase orders for accurate pricing and terms, verify inventory availability, and communicate discrepancies to the appropriate team. Update inventory management system. Maintain customer and product data: update and maintain current contact IDs on our system for customers and prospects and organize product-related files on the server. Additional responsibilities and bandwidth-contingent work: Review completed shipments and AR invoices for pricing and margin discrepancies. Check supplier invoices and prepare payment requests for accounting. Monitor website and UL Prospector leads. Assist with trade shows and marketing campaign preparation. Conduct initial follow-up after trade shows, marketing campaigns, and other lead-generation activities. Identify old accounts where sales have stopped. Reconnect with these accounts and explore potential opportunities. Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by management. Required Qualifications Minimum of 2 years of experience in sales support, customer service, order processing, operations, or a related role. Experience in chemical distribution, specialty ingredients, importing/exporting, or a similar B2B environment preferred. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Ability to accurately review purchase orders, pricing, payment terms, invoices, and inventory records. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Outlook, and Word. Experience using ERP, CRM, or inventory management systems. Strong written and verbal communication skills and a professional, customer-focused approach. Ability to coordinate effectively with customers, suppliers, Sales, Accounting, and other internal teams. Ability to work independently, follow established procedures, and identify issues requiring management review. Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or a related field preferred, or equivalent relevant work experience. Preferred Qualifications Experience coordinating product samples and maintaining customer and product databases. Familiarity with UL Prospector or other industry lead-generation platforms. Experience supporting trade shows, marketing campaigns, and customer follow-up. Benefits KOWA is committed to investing in our employees—the driving force behind our mission and success—by offering a comprehensive suite of competitive compensation and benefits. We prioritize work-life balance, ensuring you not only thrive in your career but also have the support, time, and resources to lead a happy, healthy life. Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options for Employee Assistance Programs, Basic Life Insurance, Short/Long Term Disability and more. 401(k) with a company match Vacation, Sick Leave, and Paid Holidays Commuter Benefits Reimbursement Education Assistance

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