Job: National Sales Manager – Retail (Food)

Company Description

Our client is a leading industrial bakery products manufacturer headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, specializing in high-quality baked goods for the retail sector. With a strong focus on innovation and customer partnerships, they are experiencing rapid growth and expansion across their retail customer base.

Objective of the Role

The National Sales Manager – Retail will drive strategic growth and development of the company’s retail business, with particular emphasis on Grocery Retail, C-Stores, and new business development. This role will be instrumental in expanding the company’s market presence while strengthening relationships with key retail accounts in the Bakery/Deli category.

Ideal Profile

The ideal candidate is a strategic and results-driven sales professional with deep expertise in the retail bakery/deli category. They should possess strong leadership capabilities, excellent relationship-building skills, and a proven track record of developing and executing successful retail sales strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement strategic programs to develop new customer business within the Bakery/Deli category for retail accounts
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities on a national level
• Develop and execute comprehensive customer strategies and annual business plans
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key retail accounts
• Provide market intelligence and educate customers about products and industry trends
• Manage and develop relationships with brokers and logistics service providers
• Analyze sales data to identify trends and opportunities
• Create compelling customer presentations and proposals
• Coordinate new customer onboarding and product listing processes
• Attend and represent the company at relevant trade shows
• Ensure timely execution and submission of required reports

Requirements

• 10-15 years of successful sales experience in the Bakery/Deli category within Grocery Retail
• Proven track record in developing and leading retail strategy and sales organizations
• Extensive network and experience working with multiple grocery retail customers in Deli and/or Bakery departments
• Demonstrated success in managing broker relationships and logistics service providers
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word)
• Excellence in communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field preferred
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively in a dynamic business environment
• Willingness to travel approximately 40% of the time
• Location: Cincinnati, OH headquarters (flexible arrangements possible for exceptional candidates)