Todd Eckman

Sales Manager, SS&S, Baltimore Office

1. What do you do in your role in the Sales Solutions & Services division?

I’m a sales manager with Sales Solutions & Services (SS&S), so I work as a liaison between associations and salespeople to drive revenue. I currently manage twelve association relationships. The salespeople report to me on a day-to-day basis, while I continue working with association leaders and directors to develop new ideas to drive revenue. 

2. What do you like best about your job?

The people – from day one it’s been a great working environment on every level of the organization. The people have been awesome to work with and that’s what’s kept me here.

The other piece is that every day is something different. It’s never the same thing, which provides challenges, but I like to have my hands into a bunch of different pots. I don’t always know what to expect and that’s enjoyable for me.

3. What has your career progression looked like?

I went to college for sports communication, because I wanted to work at ESPN and did everything I could to do that. I graduated in May 2006 and by August I achieved my goal. I worked there for three years, but once it was time to settle down, my wife and I decided to move closer to home and our families.

Working at ESPN looks good on a resume, but there aren’t a lot of transferable skills to a different industry. I found my way into sales by working at Tessco Technologies, selling technology to colleges. I found out I loved sales, but didn’t love that aspect of it, that’s what led me to where I am now.

I started as an account executive here seven years ago, selling on a day to day basis and got my foot in the door, driving revenue and sales for nine or ten different associations. I transitioned to my current position as a sales manager about a year and a half ago.

4. Where would we find you outside of work?

Primarily with my wife and two daughters (aged 3 and 7). We enjoy every chance we get to be together. We like to go to the beach most weekends in the summer. You also might find me playing sports. I play in pickup soccer and football leagues, and I also love baseball – especially the Philadelphia Phillies. 

5. What’s your favorite season?

I’m a big summer fan because my wife is kindergarten teacher, so I get to hang out with her and the kids more during that time. I’m also excited for fall, though, because football season is finally starting and it’s going to be time for the World Series.