Director of Specialty Food– Western Territory

Company Description

Come join a growing team! FOODMatchis searching for aDirector of Specialty Food- WestTerritoryto join ourSalesteam.

FOODMatch is a producer and importer of Mediterranean specialty foods with a focus on olives, antipasti, and ingredients. Founded in 1996, FOODMatch is a producer and importer of Mediterranean specialty foods with distinct expertise in traditionally and responsibly crafted olives, antipasti, spreads, sauces, and ingredients. FOODMatch plays an integral role in ensuring the quality of our products. The FOODMatch difference begins in the fields and groves. We are vertically integrated with our partners to ensure that each step along the production chain is completed to meticulous standards: from irrigation and pruning, to harvesting, sorting and stuffing by hand, to expertly curing and preserving, we ensure each ingredient delivers its natural flavor, color, and texture. Simply put, no detail is spared.

Through the hands of our growers we create great tasting, responsibly produced, authentic foods that nurture community and enhance your quality of life.

, Job Description

The Director of Specialty is responsible for overall management and growth of the assigned territory. The territory may consist of either a geography and/or specific accounts as determined by the Vice President of Sales. This role ensures consistent, profitable growth in sales revenues through positive planning, deployment and management of sales team. Identifies objectives, strategies and action plans to improve short- and long-term sales and earnings. This role is also accountable for allotted budget maintenance, new product placements and promotional activities.

Essential Functions

• Maximize existing business with current customers as well as develop new accounts focused on the essential aspects of the specialty retail business. Introduce customers to new products and marketing campaigns. Develop programs and initiatives to grow sales – i.e., ads, spiffs, demos, OI’s, Bill Backs, Conduct ongoing business planning reviews. Responsible to securing quarterly Distributer sales reports
• Work closely with key distributors to maximize their distribution capabilities as well as manage the overall cost of doing business with these key partners
• Provide solutions to increase specialty retail distribution challenges
• Search for new and creative opportunities for FOODMatch to expand existing product lines. Work closely with the Marketing Brand Manager to offer solutions of brand loyalty within the channel
• Work with Marketing to develop and personalize sell sheets specific to distributors in your region
• If applicable, manage the success of a Territory Manager and/or Sales Rep. Act as a mentor for direct reports
• Responsible for recruiting and hiring any open position within the territories
• Conduct regular team meetings to support each direct report through their quarterly goals and annual budget. Provide monthly status report to the Vice President of Sales
• Maintain expert level of product knowledge
• Manage, maintain and direct the specialty retail broker and/or FM merchandiser network within each territory. Conduct or manage direct reports to provide regular performance assessments and trainings on new items and updated company objectives
• Participation in regional and national food shows including coordination of deadlines and requirements with food show coordinator
  
  

, Qualifications

Background Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree Preferred or experience in business-related field
• 10+ years of experience in sales, 7+ years in management
• Existing relationships within the retail grocery category both with end users and distributors
• Track record of success in identifying, cultivating and closing deals
• Proven sales leadership success
  
  

Skill & Ability Requirements

• Strong sales skills and product knowledge
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Proactive, strategic thinker
• Willingness to take independent initiative
• Competitive driven to be the best
• Difference Maker
• Accountable to high standards
• Possesses a strong sense of urgency to accomplish goals and objectives
  
  

Specialty Retail Channel Segments

• Deli/Specialty Departments (to include olive/antipasti bars, pack out, deli cups, pouches, crackers & sweet spreads)
• Prepared Foods Departments (to include foodservice pack products such as tomatoes, olives, peppers, oils, etc.)
• Bakery Departments (to include specialty retail and foodservice pack products)
  
  

Additional Information

Travel Requirements

• This role requires moderate travel
  
  

COVID-19 Safety Protocols

• All FOODMatch employees are required to be fully vaccinated. Employees must show proof of full vaccination at the time of hire.
  
  

FOODMatch offers a comprehensive benefits package and competitive compensation based on experience. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

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

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $130,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year