Aug. 12, 2020
In early 1998, while managing a large audio retail store that sold home theater and car stereo equipment, Cecil Anderson discovered that CEC was looking for a salesperson to serve education and healthcare clients. With his background in helping customers find the technology solutions they needed, he felt like the opportunity would be a natural fit – and was hired in March 1998. Quickly excelling in his role, he enjoyed building strong relationships and learning how to support the business needs of these two markets.
In 2006, he moved into a newly created position that was perfect for his skillset: the company’s very first construction market salesperson. His job was to cultivate long-term relationships with professionals in the Iowa construction market, making sure CEC delivered excellent customer experiences.
After working in this role for a few years, he took on a new responsibility: continuing to build relationships within the construction market while also coaching newer members of the team to develop strong sales specialists.
Today, he serves as the company’s sales manager, providing guidance to salespeople in Iowa. His sights are set on providing resources, tools, and training to help CEC’s sales team thrive.
Meet CEC Sales Manager Cecil Anderson!
Q: What makes you most excited about working at CEC? What do you enjoy most about what you're doing right now?
A: I have always enjoyed helping people, whether it’s a coworker or a client. I like to make a difference in someone’s day – and I get to do that every day here.
Q: Is there a CEC initiative you’ve been involved with that you’re especially proud of?
A: I helped CEC grow the construction market from 2% of annual sales in 2006 to more than 25% of our total sales in 2010. A lt of it happens through helping people and building relationships.
Q: How does a typical day play out for you at CEC? What are you responsible for?
A: I work with awesome salespeople and help them be successful. Right now, it’s a very challenging time for everyone. Staying positive and being available to our clients makes the difference.
Q: What’s a fun/interesting fact about you that most people don’t know?
A: After doing a DNA test in 2019, I found out that I had a half-sister my dad never knew about before he passed in 2013. I got to meet her in person, and it was amazing!
Q: How do you spend your free time?
A: I enjoy spending time with my grandson, Harry, and my granddaughter, Freya! I also enjoy traveling with my wife of 30 years. Door County, WI, is a favorite destination of ours.
Q: If you could do one other job at CEC for a day, what would it be?
A: I would love to be an AV technician during the final setup and demo of a large AV system.
