Foodservice Sales Manager

Location: Virtual; travel required
Start Date: Q2 2024
Reports to: CEO

Company Overview

Little Sesame is the fastest growing CPG hummus company in the US. We pride ourselves on crafting high-quality, flavorful, and innovative products. As we continue to expand our presence in the market, we are seeking a dynamic and motivated Foodservice Sales Manager to join our team and drive penetration and growth within the foodservice channel.

Responsibilities

As a Foodservice Sales Manager at Little Sesame, you will play a pivotal role in building and maintaining strong relationships with our food service partners while driving revenue growth and market penetration. You will be responsible for:

Sales Strategy and Execution

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy to expand Little Sesame's presence within the food service sector, including restaurants, university and other institutional customers, meal kit companies, airlines, hotels, and other relevant establishments.
• Identify potential customers and cultivate new business opportunities through market research, networking, and industry events.
• Manage the complete sales cycle from prospecting to closing deals, ensuring consistent achievement of sales targets.
• Develop annual sales forecasts and prepare weekly analyses and reports that monitor and analyze sales activity and market trends
• Conduct quarterly and/or annual business reviews with key customers

Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing food service accounts, serving as the primary point of contact for their needs and inquiries.
• Collaborate with customers to understand their specific requirements and work with the operations team to build a pipeline of product offerings to meet their demands.
• Provide exceptional customer service, promptly addressing any concerns or issues to maintain client satisfaction.
• Foster and manage relationships with distributors; including large broadline distributors and redistributors including Sysco, US Foods, Performance Food Group and DOT Foods.
• Provide ongoing education to brokers, distributors, and chains regarding product innovation and promotions 

Product Knowledge and Training

• Develop a deep understanding of Little Sesame's product line, ingredients, and unique selling points. Continually optimize the sales deck; creating custom versions for large prospective customers.
• Conduct product training sessions and presentations for food service customers to educate them about the features and benefits of our hummus products.

Market Insights

• Stay updated on industry trends, competitive landscape, and customer preferences within the food service sector.
• Analyze market data and insights to identify opportunities for growth and product development.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, operations, and product development, to align strategies and ensure seamless execution.
• Provide regular updates and reports on sales activities, pipeline, and performance to the management team.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of success in food service or retail food sales, with a minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar role. 
• Strong understanding of the food service industry, including distribution channels, customer needs, and market dynamics.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated and results-driven, with a demonstrated ability to meet and exceed sales targets.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Proficiency in CRM software, Asana, Slack and Microsoft Office Suite.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and paid parental leave. 
• Opportunity to be a key player in the growth of a dynamic CPG brand.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values innovation, creativity and flexibility.

 

If you are a proactive, enthusiastic, and strategic sales professional with a passion for the food industry, Little Sesame invites you to join our team as a Foodservice Sales Manager. To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in joining the Little Sesame team.