National Account Manager

Role Overview

We are looking for a National Account Manager to spearhead the expansion of a swiftly growing beverage brand within major national retailers. This position is instrumental in launching and nurturing national chain accounts, nurturing strategic relationships with customers, and driving initiatives to escalate distribution, sales rates, and sustainable retail success.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and grow national retail chain accounts such as Whole Foods, Sprouts, The Fresh Market, and Fresh Thyme.
• Develop and implement launch strategies, promotional schedules, and cost-efficient retailer programs to ensure successful execution within accounts.
• Evaluate promotional outcomes, trade spend effectiveness, and return on investment to enhance profitability and sustained sales growth.
• Identify and secure new distribution channels and manage onboarding for new national retail partnerships.
• Collaborate with distributor partners to guarantee proper item setup, order processing, and timely delivery of products.
• Expand SKUs, distribution points, and store presence by cultivating robust retailer relationships and introducing new product innovations.
• Increase business volume by obtaining additional SKUs, shelf space, facings, and promotional placements in current accounts.
• Develop and maintain solid partnerships with buyers, brokers, and distributor account managers.
• Set priorities and strategic plans for third-party merchandising teams to maximize in-store execution and sales performance.
• Analyze market trends, sales results, and business metrics to forecast needs in line with production planning and growth strategies.
• Provide regular updates to executive leadership regarding retailer performance, strategic priorities, and forecasts.
• Create and present account strategy presentations highlighting goals, performance, and growth opportunities.
• Work closely with Trade Marketing to implement account-targeted marketing campaigns, retail activations, and point-of-sale efforts.
• Oversee budget approvals and ensure trade investments are allocated responsibly.
• Participate regularly in sales meetings to communicate progress, challenges, and align on corporate objectives.
• Represent the brand at industry trade shows and key events.

Qualifications

• 8 to 10 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector.
• 2 to 4 years working directly with buyers and brokers at a minimum of two national chain retailers, including Whole Foods and Sprouts.
• Strong passion for brand building and commitment to mission-driven organizations.
• Eager to excel in a high-growth, early-stage business environment.
• Strategic mindset with ability to quickly adapt in a dynamic business setting while achieving sales targets.
• Self-driven, proactive, and consistently results-oriented.
• Adept at managing ambiguity and skilled at asking insightful questions for complex problem-solving.
• Highly organized with excellent planning and project management skills.
• Outstanding communication capabilities including written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentations skills.
• Proficient in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office suites.
• Experienced using collaboration platforms such as Slack and video conferencing tools.
• Flexible to work outside regular hours, including evenings and weekends, to support trade shows and special events.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, current vehicle registration, and proof of insurance are mandatory.