Job Description

The Customer Development Manager is responsible for growing & developing Jack Link’s sales & profitability across the natural channel by implementing detailed strategic sales plans for these customers (Whole Foods, Sprouts, Fresh Market, and similar retailers). This position will require working closely with key customers and internal stakeholders including trade planning, marketing, demand planning, customer service, and category management. The ideal candidate will live in the Central U.S. or East Coast but can manage remotely with travel.

** PRIMARY ROLE FOCUS:**

• Gain Distribution of LSI Natural Items within the Natural Channel
• Achieving sales objectives as assigned by the Channel Director within the trade budget
• Build strong customer relationships
• Develop solid DSMP (Distribution, Shelving, Merchandising, Pricing) plans that drive category growth
• Clearly understand customer strategy and align on annual business plans that meet growth expectations

** DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:**

• Develop plans for natural channel business opportunities focused on expanding Jack Link’s in-store presence
• Responsible for analyzing customer data and developing an action plan to achieve sales goals
• Execute annual business plans to maximize top-line and bottom-line growth and achieve volume, market share, and profit/contribution objectives within the assigned trade budget.
• Provide transparent & timely communication to internal team members and our customers/brokers
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Product Management, Trade Marketing, Research & Development) in creating both short & long-term category and channel strategies
• Create and present information in a compelling and persuasive manner
• Effectively builds relationships throughout customer organizations and at various levels internally at Jack Link’s: Executive Management, Operations, Supply Planning, and Marketing
• Manage deduction & AR issues on all applicable accounts
• Responsible for building, training, and leading broker network where applicable

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience
• 5+ years CPG direct sales experience with at least 3 years within the Natural Channel
• Previous HQ Sales management experience with Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Fresh Market.
• Proven track record of positive sales performance within the Natural Channel
• Strong knowledge of MS Office products (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Working knowledge of CRM and planning software (e.g. Salesforce, SPT, SAP)
• Strong communication & presentation skills
• Business and Financial Acumen
• Leveraging data/analysis to drive end-user opportunities

DESIRED BEHAVIORS:

• Full ownership over all aspects of the customer relationship
• Professional, Consultative, Challenger selling skills
• Customer Focused
• Resilient in the face of adversity
• Embraces change and technology
• Passionate to succeed
• Driven to win
• Strive to be a Leader
• High sense of urgency

** TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:**

• Approximately 40% - 50% travel depending on business needs

** PHYSICAL DEMANDS:**

• Ability to lift 25 to 50 pounds for customer samples and displays
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle for travel to customers/brokers and Jack Link’s locations

Additional Information

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
Jack Link’s provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local law.

E-VERIFY:
Jack Link’s is participant in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For information about the E-Verify program, please visit: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.