Director of Sales (Salinas)

Director of Sales Fresh Produce Commodities Sales

Overview

Lead the strategic sales efforts of our client's fresh produce commodities divisionleveraging deep industry knowledge in perishable logistics, commodity pricing, and client relations to drive revenue and profitability across key channels such as retail, foodservice, and wholesale. Be the leader that is in the mix of the working with the big logos in the industry and come with the ability to leverage those relationships to make a difference!

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute both short- and long-term sales strategies to achieve revenue targets and market share goals.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing sales team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Manage key customer relationships; negotiate contracts and close deals that support commodity program objectives.
• Oversee commodity pricing, availability data, logistics coordination, and inventory to optimize margin and delivery reliability.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with procurement, operations, marketing, finance, customer service, and analytics to align supply with demand and craft value-added solutions.
• Conduct market analysis, track sales performance vs budgets, adjust tactics, and prepare actionable reports for senior leadership.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and field visits to represent the company and stay attuned to market trends.

Qualifications

BA in Marketing, Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, or a related field would be preferable but not a must

710+ years in sales leadership within the fresh produce, perishable goods, or grower-shipper sectors.

Demonstrated success in managing commodity pricing, logistics, and achievingor exceedingrevenue and profitability targets.

Expertise in CRM systems, forecasting tools, and data analysis.

Exceptional communication, negotiation, leadership, and relationship-building skills.

Strategic mindset with adaptability to evolving seasonal and market dynamics.

Willingness to travel extensively for customer meetings, field visits, and events.

Why This Role Matters

This role is pivotal in shaping how our client's organization competes in the fast-paced fresh produce market. Youll craft pricing strategies, optimize supply chain coordination, and lead a sales teamall while ensuring customers receive quality service and product availability. Youre both a strategic thinker and a hands-on leader who can guide teams through shifting market conditions and seasonal cycles.

The statements in this Job Posting are intended to describe the general nature and minimum level of work required. The content should not be construed as a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required to meet the criteria for this position. Upon request, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Application for employment is not intended to and does not create a contract or offer of employment and if hired, employment with the company is on an at-will basis and could be terminated at the will of either party.

ATHENA Consulting LLC does not discriminate in hiring based on federally protected classifications to include but not limited to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status or other characteristics protected by law. Equal Opportunity Employer / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities.

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Job Type : Full-time

Benefits :

401(k)

Health insurance

Health savings account

Paid time off

Work Location : In person