Center for Sales Innovation

The Center for Sales Innovation, a nationally recognized sales education and research center, focuses on the development of effective and ethical business sales leaders. Through certificate, degree, and professional development programs, participants learn to manage the value proposition of their companies, not just how to sell products.

Two St. Kate’s graduates and one Sales leader provide insight into the new rules of sales engagement. Listening is as important as speaking. Problem solving is as important as persuasion.

Azure Johnson, healthcare sales consultant "I've always had a passion for healthcare. That’s why being a sales consultant in the operating room is so fascinating for me. I work along side medical professionals providing education and advice on the orthopedic implants and instruments in use. It’s always new … always exciting. I am truly challenged.” View video >>

Darlene Miller, owner of Permac Industries "It’s really fun to be a woman in this environment. I love being a business owner – you empower people. Sales is critical to success in owning a business. It plays into so many aspects of the business. It’s absolutely critical to know your customers and know them well.” View video >>

Lynn Boyd, recruiter "As a recruiter, I am truly a sales person. I find the absolute right talent to meet the hiring needs and goals of my clients. The sales aspect is really executing on the marketing plan – learning how to individually build relationships with the accounts you are working on, meeting people, networking, presenting yourself and your product. A sales person is really influential in an organization.” View video >>

Academic Programs

St. Kate's offers two baccalaureate sales degrees with concentrations in Business-to-Business Sales and Healthcare Sales. We also offer certificate programs in these two areas. Students interested in financial services sales can complete a business-to-business sales major with a finance minor.

In addition to sales courses, students receive a broad business background in accounting, finance, marketing, and business ethics. Through the our strong liberal arts requirements, students develop the ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Ethics and integrity in sales are woven throughout the curriculum, as are skills in oral and written communication, leadership, strategy and technology. The curriculum, combined with internships, mentoring and shadowing experiences, give students real-world exposure, plus a strong conceptual framework for successful practices sales.

Professional Development Programs

Sales Executive Forum
The Sales Executive Forum is an ongoing forum of seasoned sales leaders that meets regularly to discuss issues and gain input from peers. Participants are high-level sales strategists and decision-makers at Twin Cities businesses serious about innovative ideas to manage change and generate revenue. The forum meets the second Friday of the month from 7:30-9:30 a.m. September through June. more >>

Leadership for Women in Sales
Leadership for Women in Sales is a highly selective program that provides practical education to help qualified women sales leaders move into top management roles. Tracks are available for both emerging sales leaders and experienced sales managers with major account responsibility. more>>

Strategic Business Partnerships

Strategic partnerships help us provide the skilled employees, research and resources to build our programs and help businesses thrive. Our partners include 3M, Wells Fargo, ING, Ameriprise Financial, Pfizer, Northwest Airlines, Ecolab, Tennant Company, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Loffler, Liberty Mututal, and RBC Wealth Management.
Strategic partner list and website links >>