Meet Randi

What inspired you to pursue a career in sales? 

As a student at Purdue University in the veterinary program, I took a sales class as an elective—and that one decision changed everything. I quickly realized that every industry relies on strong sales professionals, and mastering this skill could open doors to countless career paths. I fell in love with the challenge, the energy, and the opportunity to make an impact. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. 

Why did you choose to work at Staples, and what makes it a great place for sales professionals to grow their careers? 

I initially joined Staples to gain valuable business-to-business (B2B) sales experience, and I’ve stayed for nearly 20 years because of the incredible growth opportunities, extensive training, and the flexibility to balance life and work. Staples is more than just a place to work. It’s about the people. People are a top reason we love it here. It’s a place to build a lucrative career with the potential for strong earnings and financial independence. We have a winning culture rooted in our values, and I’ve grown immensely as a leader, seller, and person through the opportunities Staples has provided. I often recommend Staples to prospective employees because it offers an exciting, inclusive, and rewarding environment where sales professionals can thrive and achieve both personal and financial success. 

What’s the most rewarding part of your work? 

As Area Vice President of Business Development for Facilities Solutions, I have the privilege of coaching and mentoring sellers, whether they’re new to sales or new to the industry. Watching them develop their skills, gain confidence, and succeed is incredibly rewarding. It’s about the people—their growth, their passion, and the impact they make. At the same time, I’m constantly learning from them. The variety of their backgrounds and talents strengthens our team, allowing us to support our customers in new and innovative ways. 

What key skills are essential for success in sales roles at Staples? 

Persistence and organization are at the top of the list. Sales requires confidence, problem-solving, and the ability to bring your best every day to create value for our customers. Strong communication and relationship-building skills are also critical for understanding customer needs and driving solutions. Organization is just as important, enabling sellers to manage their pipeline effectively, stay proactive, and ultimately close more deals. Adaptability and a results-driven mindset round out the key skills that lead to long-term success in sales at Staples. 

How does Staples support professional growth and development for sales team members? 

We are invested in our people, providing numerous training and professional development opportunities at all levels. We leverage both internal and external resources to ensure a well-rounded approach to sales training. Staples’ commitment to developing its people has been instrumental in my success, and I’m incredibly grateful for that investment 

How do sales representatives at Staples work with other departments to meet their goals? 

Collaboration is part of our DNA. We work closely with cross-functional teams, from marketing to operations, to ensure our sellers have the support and resources they need to be successful. Our co-hunting approach and strong support teams reduce administrative burdens, allowing sellers to focus on what they do best: helping customers. 

How does Staples help sales professionals balance travel and work-life needs? 

One of the things I appreciate most about Staples is the flexibility to plan my own travel schedule. I enjoy the time on the road, knowing that I have the autonomy to manage my workload effectively. That balance allows me to be fully present with my loved ones when I’m home. 

What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a career in sales at Staples? 

Jump in with both feet! Staples offers so many opportunities, whether it’s world-class sales training, mentorship programs, or manufacturer-led learning sessions. Take advantage of everything available to you. Recently, I’ve had the privilege of co-chairing one of our business resource groups, Women Who Lead. The relationships I’ve built, the ability to give back, and the chance to collaborate with incredible women across the organization have been priceless. No matter where you are in your career, Staples has an avenue for growth and connection. You just have to explore it! 

We’re always looking for great sales talent—check out our sales jobs here.