Summer Sales Internship

Job Description

Here’s a detailed description of the job and company:

About the Company: Ferguson

Ferguson is a Fortune 500 company and a leading source of quality supplies for a wide variety of industries since 1953. The company’s core mission is to “Together We Build Better” infrastructure, homes, and businesses by making customers’ complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. They are committed to proactively solving problems, adapting, and growing to continuously serve their customers, communities, and each other.

With approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations, Ferguson provides best-in-class products, service, and capabilities across numerous sectors, including:
• Commercial/Mechanical
• Facilities Supply
• Fire and Fabrication
• HVAC
• Industrial
• Residential Trade
• Residential Building and Remodel
• Waterworks
• Residential Digital Commerce

Ferguson emphasizes a strong company culture, describing itself as a “community of proud associates” who operate with a shared purpose of building something meaningful. They encourage associates to build a career they are proud of within a company they can believe in. Ferguson is an equal opportunity employer and a government contractor, committed to non-discrimination.

About the Job: 10-Week Paid Summer Sales Internship

This 10-week paid summer internship at Ferguson is designed for individuals passionate about a career in sales, offering hands-on experience and the opportunity to build essential sales competencies while making a meaningful impact.

What You Will Do (Key Responsibilities and Learning Experiences):
The internship provides a comprehensive immersion into various aspects of sales and business operations:

• Sales and Customer Engagement: Gain hands-on experience in serving customers, understanding product knowledge, navigating sales processes, utilizing customer relationship management (CRM) tools, and conducting performance analysis.
• Real-World Project Contribution: Work alongside experienced sales teams and contribute to real-world projects, applying learned skills in practical scenarios.
• Supply Chain Understanding: Assist with shipping and receiving duties in the warehouse to gain a foundational understanding of how supply chain and logistics impact sales operations.
• Training and Development: Participate in structured leadership and sales training sessions to enhance professional skills.
• Diverse Sales Exposure: Engage in various sales activities, including inside sales, outside sales, counter sales, and gain insight into daily branch operations through exposure to branch management.
• Networking and Leadership Interaction: Attend leadership panels and networking events, providing opportunities to connect with professionals across the organization. You will also present a final sales project to senior leaders, demonstrating your acquired knowledge and skills.
• Headquarters Immersion: Participate in a dedicated one-week immersive experience at Ferguson’s headquarters in Newport News, VA, to further network and gain a deeper understanding of the company’s culture and values.

What You Need (Qualifications):
To be considered for this internship, candidates should meet the following requirements:

• Education: Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, sales, or a related field, and be a rising junior or senior.
• Availability: Able to work for 10 consecutive weeks during the summer period.
• Personal Attributes: Highly motivated, self-starter, competitive, and customer-centric with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and occasionally ambiguous environment.
• Communication Skills: Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of interacting effectively with team members and customers.
• Teamwork and Problem-Solving: Ability to work collaboratively, demonstrate strong teamwork, adaptability, and time management skills. Be a real-world problem solver with a willingness to “roll up your sleeves” and ensure tasks are completed.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in basic computer programs, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Organizational Skills: Demonstrate strong organizational skills.

What We Offer (Benefits and Perks):
Ferguson is committed to providing a valuable and rewarding internship experience, including:

• Practical Experience: Hands-on experience across various aspects of sales and customer relationship management.
• Mentorship: Guidance and support from experienced sales professionals.
• Networking: Opportunities to network with leaders and fellow interns from across the organization.
• Performance Evaluation: A comprehensive final evaluation from your mentor and manager.
• Career Opportunities: Potential for job opportunities upon successful completion of the internship, including consideration for programs such as the Sales Trainee Program. Qualified candidates with strong performance may receive a job offer, though relocation may be required as the offered position may not be in the same location as the internship.
• Competitive Compensation: Competitive hourly pay of $22.50 per hour. The starting wage may be higher in certain locations based on local or state wage requirements.
• Additional Benefits: Access to associate-led Business Resource Groups, involvement with Ferguson Cares (partnering with nonprofit organizations), and the opportunity to learn from and network with associates across the business, building valuable relationships.
• Employee Benefits (for interns): Medical, dental, and vision coverage, and 401K.