National Account Manager

Position Overview

The National Account Manager at Blake's Beverage Co. is responsible for leading the strategy for national chain accounts, driving sales and marketing initiatives for priority clients. This role involves planning, forecasting, and executing business plans while collaborating closely with distributors and internal teams to deliver results. Reporting to the National Key Vice President, the holder of this position will be an ambassador for the company's values and business across the U.S.

Key Duties

• Embody and promote Blake's Beverage Co.'s Servant Leadership principles, championing inclusivity, quality, profitability, and community commitment.
• Develop and implement strategic plans targeting national chain accounts to boost sales, expand distribution channels, and enhance brand visibility.
• Identify and secure new distribution avenues and grow existing ones within assigned retail accounts.
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with retail partners through regular meetings, presentations, and business reviews.
• Lead and coordinate national chain meetings and crucial customer engagements.
• Collaborate with Sales Leadership, Regional Managers, Field Sales, and Operations teams for smooth execution of sales initiatives.
• Assist in forecasting, goal setting, auditing promotional displays and programming alongside the National Accounts Vice President.
• Work in tandem with distributors and regional sales teams to uncover growth opportunities and increase sales volume.
• Participate actively in annual distributor ABP meetings.
• Expertly navigate the hard cider market landscape, positioning Blake's Beverage Co. as the leading independent craft cider provider fulfilling retail and consumer demands.
• Maintain comprehensive profiles of accounts and retail banners, managing all communications with retail partners.
• Create and share a consolidated calendar covering presentations, resets, promotions, advertisements, and sampling activities.
• Ensure relevant National Account information is effectively communicated to stakeholders.
• Conduct periodic business assessments to review sales metrics against targets and spots for improvement.
• Track and share insights on advertisements, displays, pricing promotions, and sales performance with the sales and distribution teams.
• Collaborate with distributors to ensure compliance, maintaining 100% adherence to assigned chain account requirements.
• Coordinate with Sales Directors, Regional Managers, and distributors to manage inventory for all key account activities.
• Represent Blake's Beverage Co. at company events and meetings.
• Possess a thorough understanding of the beverage distribution system and the three-tier model.
• Manage budgets effectively to support sales volume and distribution objectives.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least 3 to 5 years of experience managing national accounts in the alcoholic beverage industry.
• A Bachelor’s degree or comparable experience in a relevant field.
• Established relationships and contacts within national account circles along with a proven success record.
• Experience managing distributor relationships.
• Competence in crafting compelling presentations that convey Blake's brand narrative effectively.
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively and work a flexible schedule as needed.
• Capability to travel regularly across designated territories and attend headquarters meetings.
• Advanced proficiency with VIP, IRI (Armadillo Insights), Nielsen data analysis to interpret trends and formulate actionable strategies.
• Strong computer skills with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation with adequate insurance.
• A committed team player mindset willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure success, hold peers accountable, and foster a customer and employee-focused culture.
• Passion for the beverage business and dedication to the company’s partners, customers, consumers, and team members.

Benefits

• Competitive salary structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and holiday leave.