Experienced Customer Sales Manager for Wholesale and Indirect Customers – Leading Sales Execution and Category Management in the Northeast Region for blithequark

Introduction to blithequark

At blithequark, our US Sales team is driven by an unwavering ambition to be an Indispensable Partner with a Growth and Winning Mindset, acutely focused on Superior Execution every day. This guiding compass empowers us to grow something great and make life delicious for our customers and consumers alike. As a leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, blithequark is committed to delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of our customers. With a rich history and a strong portfolio of brands, we are poised for continued growth and success.

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Customer Sales Manager (CSM) to join our team in the Northeast region, preferably located in Pennsylvania. As a vital member of the Customer Business Team (CBT), you will own and be responsible for blithequark categories selling execution of $18 million in revenue with Wholesale and indirect customers. The CSM serves as the liaison between blithequark and the Wholesale and retail Team, leading all selling activities and driving efforts tied to improving our gross margin and market share.

Key Responsibilities

• Effectively partner with the customer, building rapport at all levels to fully understand their business, the marketplace, and affect positive business growth. This includes developing and maintaining strong relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders.

• Achieve New Item Authorization goals, Distribution goals, and Base Business Objectives: Revenue and Share Growth, Authorizations, Distribution, Optimal Shelving. This requires a deep understanding of the customer's business and the ability to develop and execute strategic plans to drive growth.

• Lead the implementation of Space Management Projects, ensuring that blithequark products are prominently displayed and easily accessible to consumers. This includes working closely with the customer to understand their space management priorities and developing solutions that meet their needs.

• Achieve promotional revenue objectives by tactic, price point, Drive Period, and Selling Event while effectively implementing blithequark pricing strategies for owned categories. This requires a strong understanding of the customer's promotional plans and the ability to develop and execute strategies that drive sales and revenue growth.

• Work with the Retail Team to effectively manage retail execution of all assigned category objectives. This includes developing and executing plans to ensure that blithequark products are properly displayed, stocked, and promoted in-store.

• Maintain files and business documentation to thoroughly detail business transactions. This includes ensuring that all sales data, customer interactions, and business agreements are accurately recorded and up-to-date.

Essential Qualifications

• Proven and tested experience in customer management, account management, and/or retail sales management for a CPG company. This includes a strong understanding of the CPG industry, customer needs, and market trends.

• Tested ability to own business process and Category management through a complex Sales position where you owned a desk of at least $18 million of business. This requires a strong understanding of category management principles, including data analysis, market research, and strategic planning.

• Strong computer skills in Microsoft and ability to learn and be proficient in blithequark systems and different customer portals. This includes proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, as well as the ability to learn and adapt to new systems and technologies.

• Proven skills embodying a customer-first mentality for effective customer management and selling to achieve objectives. This includes a strong understanding of customer needs, preferences, and pain points, as well as the ability to develop and execute strategies that meet those needs.

• Trusted to work autonomously within a CBT framework to plan, organize, and set/achieve priorities. This requires a high level of self-motivation, discipline, and accountability, as well as the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Clear examples of exhibiting polished interpersonal skills (written, verbal, and presentation) with potential to negotiate and influence effectively. This includes strong communication and presentation skills, as well as the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers, colleagues, and other stakeholders.

• Tested proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and proprietary Sales systems such as IRI, SAP, etc. This includes a strong understanding of sales data analysis, market research, and category management principles, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge to drive business growth and revenue.

• Clear examples of exhibiting strong analytical skills; Has the ability and experience using syndicated and/or ambiguous data to develop comprehensive business plans by analyzing category and brand performance and influencing customers to achieve category objectives. This includes a strong understanding of data analysis, market research, and category management principles, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge to drive business growth and revenue.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a field-based sales environment, with a strong understanding of the CPG industry and customer needs.

• Knowledge of blithequark systems and processes, including sales data analysis, market research, and category management principles.

• Strong understanding of the Northeast region, including market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscape.

• Experience working with Wholesale and indirect customers, with a strong understanding of their business needs and priorities.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At blithequark, we are committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Customer Sales Manager, you will have access to a range of training and development programs, including sales training, category management, and leadership development. You will also have the opportunity to work with a talented and experienced team, with a strong culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Work Environment and Company Culture

blithequark is a dynamic and fast-paced work environment, with a strong culture of innovation and customer focus. As a field-based sales role, you will have the opportunity to work autonomously, with a high level of flexibility and autonomy. You will also be part of a larger team, with regular meetings and updates to ensure that you are informed and aligned with company goals and objectives.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

blithequark offers a competitive compensation package, including a base salary range of $102,100.00 - $127,600.00, as well as a performance-based bonus. You will also have access to a range of benefits, including healthcare, protection, and savings plans, as well as a range of wellbeing programs and resources. These benefits include:

• Physical – Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

• Social – Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training

• Emotional – Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

• Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and results-driven sales professional, with a strong understanding of the CPG industry and customer needs, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Customer Sales Manager at blithequark, you will have the opportunity to work with a talented and experienced team, with a strong culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. You will also have access to a range of training and development programs, as well as a competitive compensation package and a range of benefits. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join a dynamic and fast-paced team, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and business growth. Apply now to become a part of the blithequark team!