Job: Market Manager – San Diego (Ultra Premium Vodka)

Company Description

Our client is a fast growing ultra premium vodka. They have established a reputation for producing one of the finest artisanal spirits, earning numerous accolades from prestigious industry competitions. Their award-winning vodka, renowned for its quality, is presented in the iconic eco-friendly packaging that boasts a reduced carbon footprint.

Objective of the Role

The San Diego Market Manager will play a crucial role in expanding the market presence of this ultra-premium vodka brand within the San Diego area. This remote position involves driving distribution and sales for both on-premise and off-premise accounts, including some regional chain responsibilities. The Market Manager will serve as an educator and sales consultant, fostering relationships and promoting the brand.

Ideal Profile

The ideal candidate is a seasoned sales professional with 4-5 years of experience in the spirits industry, either with a distributor or supplier. They possess a deep understanding of spirits industry products and production, and have a proven track record of developing and executing luxury brand strategies. Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills are essential, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. A passion for premium spirits and an innovative approach to market growth are key attributes for success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the VP Western Region to develop and execute strategic sales and distribution plans for the San Diego market to drive growth in case sales, revenue, and market share.
• Gain a thorough understanding of local market conditions at distributor and trade levels, building and maintaining strong relationships across all trade channels.
• Promote and educate the market on the history, philosophy, and core values of the vodka brand.
• Drive sales in top key high-profile accounts within the territory.
• Identify, contact, and sell to targeted on-premise and off-premise accounts, both independently and in collaboration with distributor personnel.
• Utilize VIP analysis and key market relationships to manage pricing and portfolio integrity.
• Track, record, and follow up on sales interactions to ensure account closures.
• Build trust and loyalty with distributors, accounts, and colleagues.
• Participate in consumer and trade tastings and events as necessary.
• Conduct regular distributor sales meetings, training sessions, and product presentations.
• Develop and motivate distributor personnel to ensure successful execution of marketing strategies.
• Maintain awareness of company events and activations through weekly reviews of company updates and team calendars.
• Allocate time effectively: 80% in-field selling, 10% territory analysis, 5% key account call preparation, and 5% administrative tasks.
• Achieve monthly sales goals as directed by the VP of Sales Western Region.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 4-5 years of sales experience in the spirits industry with a distributor or supplier.
• Comprehensive knowledge of spirits industry products and production.
• Excellent group presentation and meeting skills, with the ability to inspire and engage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strategic thinker with a focus on long-term business planning.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to foster collaboration and innovation.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong project management and prioritization abilities to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
• Willingness to work and travel on nights and weekends.
• Physical ability to lift 50lbs and perform repetitive lifting, bending, pulling, and pushing.
• Residence within the prescribed territory with proximity to major selling markets.
• A valid driver’s license.
• Appreciated previous experience: Bacardi, Beam Suntory, Brown Forman, Campari, Constellation Brands, Distell, Camus Cognac, Diageo, Jose Cuervo, LVMH, Marie Brizard, Moet Hennessy, Patron Spirits, Pernod Ricard, Remy Cointreau, Stoli, Edrington, William Grant & Sons, Zamora, Southern Glazer, Breakthru, Republic National RNDC…

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, management, or a related field.
• Over 4 years of management or related experience.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package, including potential bonuses.
• Paid time off and holidays.