Responsibilities:

Product & Category Expertise:

• Act as the internal subject matter expert for a designated category, possessing in-depth knowledge of product quality, market characteristics, seasonal availability, and technical specifications.
• Provide expert guidance and support to both internal teams and external customers.

Sales Team Training & Support:

• Develop and deliver comprehensive training sessions for the field sales force on new and existing products.
• Educate sales team on key sourcing practices, product features and benefits, and effective strategies for leveraging vendor and supplier relationships to drive sales.

Market & Competitive Analysis:

• Proactively monitor and analyze market trends, including consumer preferences, new product innovations, and shifts in supply chain dynamics.
• Regularly assess the quality, pricing, and strategies of competitors to inform our own business and pricing decisions.

Strategic Business Development:

• Identify, develop, and manage a portfolio of high-value customers. Formulate and execute targeted promotional campaigns and programs to increase sales volume and profitability within this customer segment.

Supplier & Vendor Relationships:

• Cultivate and maintain strong working relationships with key suppliers and vendors.
• Collaborate to ensure a consistent and high-quality product supply, negotiate favorable terms, and explore opportunities for exclusive product development or promotions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Business, Supply Chain, Food Science) preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in sales, category management, or product management, with a proven track record of success in a food service, wholesale, or distribution environment.
• Significant years of experience in a product specialist or technical role, with a track record of successfully influencing sales teams and business outcomes.
• Proven, deep-level expertise in a specific food category with a solid understanding of food science, quality assurance, and supply chain dynamics.
• Advanced Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze complex issues and provide clear, effective solutions.
• Strategic Influence: Proven ability to build credibility and influence senior stakeholders without direct authority.
• Traits: Exceptionally detail-oriented, highly credible, and an outstanding communicator capable of presenting to large groups and senior management.