**THIS IS NOT A JOB AT FORCEBRANDS**

*Our client, a high-growth CPG food brand, is seeking a Sales Director, Southeast to own the Grocery + Natural Retail accounts in the region including Publix, HEB, Southeastern Grocers, etc.*

Job Title: Sales Director, Southeast

Location: Southeast Region (Preferred location: Florida, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, or nearby states); also open to the Northeast if you also have experience in Mid-Atlantic/Southeast region.

About the Role: As the Sales Director for the Southeast region, you will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies, fostering relationships with key customers and distributors, and driving revenue growth. This position requires a deep understanding of the CPG food industry, strong experience working with major retailers and distributors, and a proven track record in broker management.

Responsibilities:

• Sales Strategy Development: Develop and execute comprehensive sales strategies for the Southeast region, aligning with corporate goals and objectives.
• Retailer Relationship Management: Cultivate and manage relationships with key accounts, including but not limited to Publix, HEB, Southeastern Grocers, The Fresh Market, and other regional retailers.
• Distributor Partnerships: Collaborate with UNFI, Kehe, and other regional distributors to ensure optimal product distribution and availability across the Southeast region.
• Broker Management: Lead and manage brokers in the region to ensure strong performance, execution of sales strategies, and optimal sell-through at the retail level.
• Revenue Growth: Achieve sales and revenue targets by identifying new opportunities, expanding existing accounts, and driving strategic initiatives.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with the marketing, operations, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless execution of sales strategies, product launches, and promotions.
• Market Intelligence: Stay informed of industry trends, competitor activity, and consumer preferences to ensure the brand remains competitive in the marketplace.
• Reporting & Forecasting: Provide regular sales forecasts and performance reports to senior management, ensuring alignment with regional and corporate goals.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 7+ years of experience in sales leadership within the CPG food industry, with a strong background in the Southeast region.
• Retailer Relationships: Proven experience calling on and managing relationships with major retailers such as Publix, HEB, Southeastern Grocers, The Fresh Market, and other key regional players.
• Distributor Experience: Experience working with major food distributors such as UNFI, Kehe, and others, ensuring the effective distribution of products across multiple channels.
• Broker Management: Extensive experience managing brokers, driving performance, and ensuring successful execution of sales plans at the retail level.
• Sales Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead a team, inspire results, and execute complex sales strategies in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Results-Oriented: A strong track record of achieving and exceeding sales targets and driving revenue growth.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence both internal teams and external partners.
• Travel: Willingness to travel regularly within the Southeast region.

Preferred Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field.
• Experience in natural/organic food brands or emerging CPG food brands is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills and experience using data to inform sales strategies.