Overview
A fast-growing, premium food manufacturer specializing in ready-to-cook and heat-and-eat protein products is seeking an experienced and self-directed Director of Sales to take ownership of revenue generation and customer development. This role is a ground-floor opportunity to lead all sales efforts, starting as an individual contributor and evolving into a leadership role as the company builds a national sales team. The position reports directly to the CEO and is integral to the company’s expansion in the retail grocery space.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct Sales Leadership : Serve as the initial point person for all direct sales activity, responsible for identifying, pitching, and securing new retail grocery accounts across both regional and national banners.
- Retail Channel Development : Leverage existing industry relationships and cultivate new partnerships to expand the company’s footprint within the retail grocery sector.
- Strategic Sales Execution : Develop and implement a national sales plan aligned with company growth targets, focusing on product placement, promotional strategy, and market penetration.
- Team Building & Leadership : Transition into a sales leadership role by recruiting, mentoring, and managing a high-performance sales team as the business scales.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration : Partner with marketing, operations, and product development to align sales strategies with customer needs and internal capabilities.
- Performance Management : Define, track, and report on key sales KPIs—including revenue growth, account acquisition, customer retention, and promotional effectiveness.
- Forecasting & Budgeting : Create and manage annual sales budgets and revenue forecasts, ensuring efficient allocation of resources for maximum return on investment.
- Industry Representation : Represent the company at key trade shows, industry events, and buyer meetings to build brand visibility and strengthen retail partnerships.
Required Qualifications
8+ years of sales experience with a strong track record in the retail grocery channel, including direct relationships with major buyers and retailersDemonstrated success in new business development, market expansion, and category growthExperience working with protein-based food products (e.g., beef, pork, poultry) strongly preferredEntrepreneurial mindset with strong self-management skills and the ability to operate autonomouslyExcellent communication, negotiation, and organizational abilitiesWillingness to travel for customer meetings, industry events, and trade shows as neededPreferred Attributes
Results-oriented and hands-on, with a genuine passion for high-quality food productsComfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment where initiative and ownership are keyStrategic thinker with the ability to execute tactically while building and leading a future sales teamCompensation
We offer a competitive base salary , performance-based incentives, and equity participation for the right candidate. Compensation will grow in alignment with sales performance, team expansion, and business results.
Details
Seniority level : DirectorEmployment type : Full-timeJob function : Sales and Business DevelopmentIndustries : Staffing and Recruiting#J-18808-Ljbffr