Job: Market Manager – San Francisco Bay area (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 Francisco Bay area Market Manager will play a crucial role in expanding the market presence of this ultra-premium vodka brand within the San Francisco Bay area 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 Francisco Bay 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.