Thomas D. Coates
Professional Summary
Versatile Field Service and Sales Leader with 30+ years of experience delivering technical solutions, client success, and revenue growth across commercial equipment service, telecom, and enterprise sales. Expert in rapid-response field operations, consultative sales, CRM integration (Salesforce), and managing high-value accounts. Recognized for bridging technical knowledge with client-focused outcomes, resolving critical equipment issues, and leading teams to exceed performance metrics.
Core Competencies / Skills
- Field Service & Equipment Diagnostics (TurboChef, HHD, Conveyor Ovens, High-Voltage Systems)
- Technical Troubleshooting & Component Replacement
- Salesforce CRM & Client Relationship Management
- B2B Sales Leadership & Business Development
- Network Communications & IT Infrastructure (VPN, Servers, Telecom Provisioning)
- Inventory Management & Rapid Response Logistics
- Project Coordination & Technical Documentation
- Data Analysis & Dashboard Reporting (Excel, Google Sheets)
- Team Leadership, Training & Coaching
Professional Experience
General Manager – Field Services
New Coaco LLC – Commercial Equipment Fault Restoration | Virginia Beach, VA | 2023–Present
- Lead technician and manager for on-site equipment restoration across VA, NC, and MD.
- Specialized in TurboChef (Bullet, HHD) and conveyor oven repairs, manufacturer component installations, and warranty services.
- Maintain stocked inventory and execute same-day restoration when parts are on hand.
- Dispatch-ready, fully insured LLC, capable of rapid-response deployment to rural, after-hours, or overflow clients.
- Consistently resolve high-priority commercial equipment faults under pressure, minimizing client downtime.
Inbound Sales Advisor
Cox Communications | 2023–Present
- Deliver consultative technology solutions to inbound business prospects.
- Apply needs-based assessments to qualify opportunities and meet/exceed sales metrics.
- Integrate Salesforce CRM to track pipelines, analyze performance, and maintain customer satisfaction.
Business Development Manager
CoStar Group (Apartments.com) | 2017–2023
- Presented high-value client solutions using Excel, Google Sheets, CRM dashboards, and analytics tools.
- Identified growth channels and increased apartment portfolio profitability through strategic targeting.
- Collaborated cross-functionally to execute scalable sales strategies.
Secondary School Educator / Coach
City of Virginia Beach Public Schools | 2009–2017
- Full-time guest teacher and Girls JV Soccer Coach at Bayside High School.
- Delivered engaging academic instruction and supported extracurricular development.
Network Communications Manager (Consultant)
Dendrite International / NetTelcos | 2004–2009
- Managed multi-application servers, DNS, telecom provisioning, and technical support documentation.
- Implemented hosted telecom and cloud solutions for independent clients.
Sales Manager
Charter Communications | 2003–2004
- Led regional sales team generating $2.8M in new revenue.
- Oversaw product rollouts and customer success initiatives.
National Account Manager
AT&T Corporation | 1992–2003
- Managed global voice/data accounts valued at $15.3M annually.
- Coordinated technical service orders, escalations, and SLA compliance for Fortune 500 clients.
Education
B.S., Political Science – Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA
Minor: International Relations
Community & Interests
- National Geographic MyShot Contributor (Amateur Photography)
- Emmanuel Episcopal Church – Building & Grounds Committee, Usher