Wakefern Food Corp. is the largest retailer-owned cooperative in the United States and supports its co-operative members' retail operations, trading under the ShopRite®, Price Rite®, The Fresh Grocer®, Dearborn Markets®, Fairway Market®, and Gourmet Garage® banners.
Employing an innovative approach to wholesale business services, Wakefern focuses on helping the independent retailer compete in a big business world. Providing the tools entrepreneurs need to stay a step ahead of the competition, Wakefern’s co-operative members benefit from the company’s extensive portfolio of services, including innovative technology, private label development, and best-in-class procurement practices.
Summary
The Sales Manager - Service, Supply, & Support will play a crucial role in establishing a new capability for Wakefern to monetize our existing services, supply, & support offerings by developing and executing strategic sales initiatives. The primary responsibility will be to build out a sales pipeline of leads, create strong relationships with key clients, and achieve revenue targets. This role is a unique opportunity which requires a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the services industry, entrepreneurial leadership, and a proven track record in sales management. They will help identify new opportunities, optimize sales strategies, and improve customer satisfaction and retention. Lastly, as the new business begins to grow, this role will build out and manage a sales team.
Essential Functions
- Lead Generation and Sales Pipeline Management: Establish this new capability at Wakefern building out the opportunity to monetize our existing sales, services and support.
- Sales Strategy Development: Develop and implement comprehensive sales strategies to achieve business objectives and revenue targets.
- Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and motivate the sales team to ensure high performance and achievement of sales goals.
- Client Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, understanding their needs and providing tailored solutions.
- Market Analysis: Conduct market research and analysis to identify new business opportunities and stay ahead of industry trends.
- Sales Forecasting: Prepare accurate sales forecasts and performance reports for senior management.
- Negotiation and Closing: Oversee the negotiation and closing of high-value deals, ensuring favorable terms for the company.
- Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, including wholesale, marketing, operations, and finance, to ensure alignment and support for sales initiatives.
- Training and Development: Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for the sales team to enhance their skills and knowledge.
- Customer Feedback: Gather and analyze customer feedback to continuously improve the services offered and address any issues promptly.
- Compliance: Ensure all sales activities comply with company policies and legal regulations.
Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in sales management, preferably in the services industry. Grocery, Wholesale and Retail industry experience – a plus.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field. MBA is a plus.
- Proven Track Record: Demonstrated success in achieving sales targets and driving revenue growth.
- Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management abilities with a focus on coaching and development.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present to senior executives and large audiences.
- Analytical Skills: Proficient in data analysis and sales forecasting techniques.
- Customer Focus: Strong customer orientation and ability to build lasting relationships.
- Negotiation Skills: Expertise in negotiation and closing high-value deals.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in CRM software and MS Office Suite.
- Willingness to travel and work flexible hours
Competencies
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term sales strategies and adapt to changing market conditions.
- Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills with the capacity to address complex challenges effectively.
- Results-Oriented: Focused on achieving measurable outcomes and driving business success.
- Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
- Integrity: High ethical standards and commitment to maintaining the company’s reputation.
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
This position requires in person office presence
This position may require travel
