Curious about the earning potential of a Sysco Outside Sales Representative? You've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will break down what you can expect to make, factors influencing your pay, and how to maximize your earnings in this dynamic role. Let's dive in!
Understanding Sysco Outside Sales Rep Compensation ?
Sysco, a global leader in foodservice distribution, employs a vast network of outside sales representatives, also known as Account Executives or Sales Consultants, to manage client relationships and drive sales. Their compensation typically comprises a combination of base salary and variable components like commissions and bonuses.
 |
| How Much Do Sysco Outside Sales Reps Make |
Step 1: Discover the Average Earnings
So, how much do Sysco outside sales reps make? As of July 2025, the average annual pay for a Sysco Outside Sales Representative in the United States is approximately $64,550 per year. This breaks down to roughly $31.03 per hour, $1,241 per week, or $5,379 per month.
However, it's important to understand that this is an average. Salaries can vary significantly based on several factors. For instance, while ZipRecruiter reports annual salaries as high as $141,500 and as low as $23,000, most Sysco Sales Representative salaries typically fall between $53,500 (25th percentile) and $93,000 (75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) can reach $112,500 annually.
Similarly, Comparably estimates the average total compensation (including base and bonus) for a Sysco Account Executive to be around $87,345 annually.
Step 2: Deconstruct the Compensation Structure
The total compensation for a Sysco outside sales representative isn't just a fixed number. It's usually a blend of different components:
2.1 Base Salary
This is the fixed portion of your pay, providing a stable income regardless of sales performance. For an Outside Sales Representative at Sysco, the average base salary is around $51,352 as of 2025. This can range from $47,000 to $58,000.
2.2 Commission
This is the variable component and often a significant part of a sales rep's income. Commissions are typically earned based on the volume or profitability of sales made. While specific commission structures at Sysco aren't publicly detailed, common sales commission models include:
Revenue Commission: A percentage of the total sales revenue generated.
Gross Margin Commission: A percentage of the profit made on sales, after subtracting associated costs. This incentivizes selling higher-margin products.
Tiered Commission: Commission rates increase as sales targets are exceeded, motivating higher performance.
Residual Commission: Earning a commission for as long as acquired accounts continue to generate revenue, fostering long-term customer relationships.
Sysco's sales roles are designed to incentivize profitable sales growth and the development of new business. Your ability to consistently meet and exceed sales quotas will directly impact your commission earnings.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
2.3 Bonuses and Incentives ⭐
Beyond commissions, Sysco may offer various bonuses and promotional incentives. These could be tied to:
Meeting specific sales targets or quotas.
Acquiring a certain number of new accounts.
Selling particular high-priority products.
Overall team performance.
Many Sysco Account Executives report receiving annual bonuses, with 43% indicating this is the case.
Step 3: Identify Influencing Factors
Several key factors can significantly influence how much a Sysco outside sales rep makes:
3.1 Location
Salaries can vary considerably by geographical location due to differences in cost of living, market demand, and local competition. For instance, Sysco Account Managers tend to earn more in cities like Sacramento, CA ($102,712) and Spokane, WA ($98,555) compared to the national average.
3.2 Experience Level ?
Like most professions, experience plays a crucial role in earning potential.
Early Career (1-4 years): Average total compensation around $48,691.
Mid-Career (5-9 years): Average total compensation around $58,958.
Experienced Sales Reps: Can earn significantly more, especially with a proven track record of exceeding targets and building strong client relationships.
3.3 Performance and Sales Quotas
This is perhaps the most direct factor. Sysco sales reps are given sales objectives and annual sales quotas. Consistently meeting and exceeding these targets directly translates to higher commissions and bonuses. A strong sales performance can lead to substantial increases in total compensation.
3.4 Product Mix and Margin
Sales reps who focus on selling higher-margin products or a diverse mix of profitable goods can potentially earn more in commission, especially if their commission structure is tied to gross margin.
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
3.5 Customer Relationships and Retention ?
Building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with clients is vital. Residual commissions often reward reps for ongoing revenue generated from their accounts, emphasizing customer loyalty and retention.
Step 4: Explore Benefits and Perks
Beyond direct monetary compensation, Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package that adds significant value to the overall compensation:
4.1 Health and Wellness ⚕️
Sysco provides a range of health benefits, including:
Medical, dental, and prescription plans.
Maternity benefits.
Mental health resources, including virtual and in-person behavioral health support and Employee Assistance Programs.
4.2 Financial Security and Retirement
To help employees plan for their future, Sysco offers:
Robust 401(k) plans with automatic matching.
Employee Stock Purchase Programs.
Life and disability insurance coverage.
Pre-tax savings opportunities.
4.3 Career Development and Perks
Sysco is committed to employee growth and well-being, providing:
Car allowance (or mileage reimbursement in some areas like CA) and a cell phone.
Specialized sales training.
Career pathing opportunities for both entry-level and experienced individuals.
Monthly and annual sales rewards and recognition.
Perks at Work Discount Program for travel, entertainment, and more.
Support for military veterans and various Colleague Resource Groups for fostering inclusion and community.
Step 5: Understand the Career Path and Requirements ️
Becoming a successful Sysco Outside Sales Representative often involves a clear progression and meeting specific qualifications.
5.1 Educational Background and Experience
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
While a Bachelor's degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, Hospitality, or Culinary Arts is preferred, Sysco also considers candidates with a High School Diploma/GED and at least 3 years of relevant experience. This experience could be in:
Restaurant Management.
B2B (Business-to-Business) sales.
General outside sales experience.
Completion of a Sysco Sales Internship.
Preferred qualifications also include being bilingual and having prior restaurant management, foodservice outside sales, or chef experience.
5.2 Key Skills and Competencies ?
To excel in this role, you'll need a strong set of skills, including:
Sales Ability/Persuasiveness: The core of the role involves driving sales.
Building Customer Loyalty: Fostering strong, lasting relationships is key to repeat business and residual commissions.
Communication Skills: Essential for understanding customer needs, presenting solutions, and negotiating.
Time Management: Managing a territory, scheduling appointments, and administrative duties effectively.
Adaptability: The ability to respond to changing market conditions and customer needs.
Problem-Solving Skills: Troubleshooting issues like out-of-stock items or delivery problems.
Basic PC skills and proficiency with MS Office.
A valid driver's license with a clean driving record and adequate automobile insurance are also mandatory, as this is an outside sales position requiring significant travel.
5.3 Day-to-Day Responsibilities ️
A Sysco Outside Sales Representative's role is multifaceted, involving:
Developing new business and penetrating existing accounts.
Achieving sales and profit goals.
Researching customer business needs and developing product/service mixes.
Staying informed on market conditions, product innovations, and competitors.
Providing product information and training to customers.
Managing accounts receivable.
Troubleshooting order process issues.
Participating in company functions and ongoing training.
Preparing sales budgets and reports.
10 Related FAQ Questions ❓
How to Calculate Sysco Sales Commission?
Sysco's exact commission structure is proprietary, but generally, sales commissions are calculated as a percentage of either the revenue generated from sales or the gross margin/profit on those sales. Higher sales volume and more profitable product sales typically lead to higher commission payouts.
How to Become a Successful Sysco Outside Sales Rep?
Success hinges on a combination of strong sales skills, excellent customer relationship management, deep product knowledge, and the ability to consistently meet or exceed sales targets. Networking, continuous learning, and adaptability are also crucial.
How to Improve Sales Performance at Sysco?
Focus on identifying customer needs, offering tailored solutions, upselling and cross-selling relevant products, and actively seeking new business opportunities. Building strong, trusting relationships with clients is paramount.
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
How to Get Hired as a Sysco Outside Sales Rep?
Highlight your sales experience, customer service skills, and any relevant background in restaurant management or foodservice on your resume and cover letter. Emphasize your ability to build relationships and drive results. Be prepared to discuss your sales strategies during the interview.
How to Prepare for a Sysco Sales Interview?
Research Sysco and the foodservice industry, understand the specific territory if known, and prepare to discuss your sales achievements and customer relationship approach. Practice answering behavioral questions using the STAR method.
How to Advance Your Career as a Sysco Sales Rep?
Consistent high performance, taking on leadership roles (even informal ones), pursuing further education or certifications, and expressing interest in management or specialized sales positions can lead to career advancement.
How to Handle Sales Quotas at Sysco?
Sales quotas are a core part of the job. Develop a strategic sales plan, prioritize high-potential accounts, effectively manage your time, and utilize Sysco's training and resources to help you meet and exceed your targets.
How to Manage a Sales Territory Effectively for Sysco?
Segment your territory to identify key accounts and prospects, develop a consistent call cycle, leverage data to understand sales trends, and build strong rapport with all your clients. Efficient route planning is also essential.
How to Deal with Customer Objections as a Sysco Sales Rep?
Listen actively to understand the root of the objection, acknowledge their concerns, reframe the objection as a question, and then provide a clear, value-driven solution that addresses their specific needs.
How to Maintain Work-Life Balance as a Sysco Outside Sales Rep?
While the role can involve non-traditional hours, effective time management, setting clear boundaries, utilizing technology to streamline tasks, and leveraging Sysco's support systems can help in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
 |
