Ira Chick
Northbrook,IL
Summary
Experienced sales and business professional with a background in independent and manufacturer representation, account development, and retail management. Strong track record of building relationships, expanding territories, and driving sales across furniture, industrial, construction, safety, and retail markets.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Independent Sales Contractor
Self Employed
01.2004 - 12.2025
- Developed and established new client relationships to open accounts with brick-and-mortar furniture retailers, e-commerce businesses, interior designers, home stagers, and corporate housing companies
- Expanded market presence by identifying and onboarding new dealers throughout the Chicagoland area and surrounding suburbs
- Collaborated closely with dealers to develop effective marketing strategies that increased product visibility and sales performance
- Educated clients on the effective use of existing sales and marketing technologies provided by represented distributors to improve ordering efficiency and customer engagement
- Served as the primary point of contact for all assigned accounts, managing the full sales cycle from prospecting through ongoing account support
- Maintained strong knowledge of product lines, industry trends, and customer needs to provide consultative sales solutions
- Cultivated long-term relationships with clients, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
General Manager & Buyer
Irv's Men Stores
1991 - 1994
- Managed daily store operations, including cash flow, revenue performance, and overall profitability
- Oversaw buying and merchandising decisions to align inventory with customer demand and market trends
- Attended industry buying shows to evaluate men’s apparel trends, vendors, and pricing opportunities
- Selected and purchased product assortments to maximize sales, margins, and inventory turnover
- Designed and maintained visual displays to enhance customer engagement and increase purchase intent
- Analyzed sales performance to adjust buying strategies and merchandising plans
- Provided leadership and oversight to ensure a high-quality customer experience
Manufacturers Representative
Richard F Payne Manufactures
1989 - 1991
- Represented manufacturers selling supplies to industrial, construction, and safety markets
- Called on distributors, contractors, and end users to promote product lines and generate sales
- Developed and maintained strong relationships within assigned territories to grow and retain accounts
- Identified customer needs and provided product solutions tailored to job site, industrial, and safety requirements
- Managed sales activities from prospecting through order placement and follow-up
- Worked closely with manufacturers and distribution partners to support product availability and customer satisfaction
- Built a reputation for reliability, product knowledge, and long-term relationship management
Skills
- Independent Work & Self-Management
- Strategic Planning
- Problem Solving
- Communication & Presentation Skills
- Customer Education & Training
- Time Management & Organization
- Professional Integrity & Reliability
Awards
- Coaster Salesman of the Year - 2007
Lined Represented
- Coaster Furniture Company of America
- DreamGuard
- ServeCo
- Imperial Fan Life
- Evolur/DreamOnMe
- Howard Elliot
- Oaski Massage Chairs
- W. Silver Bed Frames
- Artisan Chicago
Timeline
Independent Sales Contractor
Self Employed
01.2004 - 12.2025
General Manager & Buyer
Irv's Men Stores
1991 - 1994
Manufacturers Representative
Richard F Payne Manufactures
1989 - 1991