Director of Sales - Foodservice

Strong, growing produce company seeking a Director of Sales – Foodservice for their growing organization.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including C-Suite level at food service distributors, regional and national restaurant chains, and large institutional buyers.
• Develop and execute the sales strategy for both regional and national accounts focusing on new customer acquisition, retention, and expansion opportunities.
• Develop, expand, and promote key Top to Top level Operator relationships penetrating customers at all key functions & levels.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for existing and new corporate accounts, addressing concerns, negotiating terms, and ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Provide regular sales forecasts, performance updates, and strategic recommendations.
• Identify, analyze, and monitor new/emerging accounts (per product mix and potential) with a focus on the accounts of the future while carefully managing internal resources and expense against potential returns.
• Build process for management & execution of information flow with customer and internal partners for efficiency and to maintain pricing and margin integrity that meets total company guidelines.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify new business opportunities and stay ahead of industry shifts.
• Manage pricing strategies, negotiate contracts, and drive initiatives that lead to profitable sales.
• Provide insights into customer needs and market demands to ensure the company’s product offerings remain relevant and competitive.
• Work closely with the quality, operations and supply chain teams to ensure timely delivery and product availability, especially for new product launches.
• Partner with the finance and accounting departments to track budgets, sales forecasts, timely rebate payments, and pricing strategies.
• Coordinate with the marketing department to align promotional campaigns, product launches, and customer communication strategies.
• Conduct thorough market research to identify emerging trends, customer demands, and potential areas for growth within the food service industry.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the food service industry, with at least 5 years of experience with national chain accounts. Produce experience is a plus.
• Proven track record of managing and growing sales in a competitive environment, with experience handling large accounts and driving revenue growth.
• Strong knowledge of the produce industry, including product lines, distribution channels, and customer trends.
• Existing relationships with key chain accounts and/or key management within broadline distributor’s headquarters.
• Proficiency in sales technology tools, including CRM systems, sales analytics, and forecasting software.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence key stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret market data and make informed strategic decisions.
• Must be PC literate, knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• Professional appearance
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills -Able to work with minimum to no supervision
• Customer service driven -Able to multi-task
• Ability to organize and prioritize numerous tasks and complete them under time constraints
• Work requires continual attention to detail in composing, typing and proofing materials, establishing priorities and meeting deadlines
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and demands
• Ability to travel frequently and without constraints

 

Please contact Katie Settle, katie@producecareers.com