This role is responsible to work with the Merchandising or Sales Manager to represent the Company’s center store merchandising by developing positive and effective working relationships with existing customers and cultivating new business by offering effective solutions, guidance, strategies, retailer programs and tools with economic benefits to both the customer and the Company. 

This role will primarily travel to customer store locations in an assigned region. Travel by vehicle will typically take place 4 days per week. Travel stipend and reimbursement is provided.

Here's what you’ll do: 

• Analyze and/or review data analysis from Merchandising or Sales Manager to prepare ideas/recommendations for presentation to customer. 

• Present new ideas to retailer store level management to include informing retailer of special buys, newly introduced products, seasonal trends/deals, etc. 

• Act as the primary liaison between the Company and its customers by developing positive, strong, close and lasting customer relationships that enhance trust in the Company, improve customer loyalty and longevity and ensure quick and effective communication and problem resolution. 

• Ensure a general knowledge and understanding of all Company center store products and programs to effectively sell to new and existing customers. 

• Maintain contact with customers via telephone, email, and frequent site visits. 

• Increase sales by assisting in store resets, speeding up new item introduction, driving purchase concentration, and planning and assisting retailers in special event or seasonal programs. 

• Ensure retailers understand all the value-added services the Company provides. 

• Measure the outcome of business-building initiatives through review and analysis of sales reports for targeted customers (independent retailers) compared to baseline reports; identify opportunities for growth based on such. 

• Provide guidance to customers on operational and merchandising issues and recommend solutions. 

• Manage ordering, pricing and stocking of products based on service agreement with retailers. 

• Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed. 

Here’s what you’ll need: 

• Bachelor's Degree (Required) Business Administration or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

• Three years combined experience in sales and account management. 

• Experience in a grocery, wholesale, or food industry environment preferred. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, and interpersonal skills including a strong ability to present new ideas and persuade individuals and thrive on networking. 

• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills, including evaluating possible outcomes.  

• Strong working knowledge of products and services, and industry trends.  

• Ability to evaluate and understand the actions and needs of others, convey a positive attitude and viewpoint of the future, and to provide emotional support.  

• Proficient with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word and PowerPoint.  

• Ability to travel up to 75%.