Field Sales Representative - Chicago

About the role

Maximize the sales and distribution of all company products in the assigned Chicago territory through the establishment and execution of local and national sales programs and initiatives. Apply a sales strategy to target key markets and establish a dominant presence, execute promotional programs with key partners, and drive merchandising efforts.

Responsibilities

• Aggressively identify, target, and market to existing and potential accounts, both individually and in partnership with distributors, to maximize distribution, shelf space, and “3P” merchandising efforts.
• Build share of mind with distributors by:
  • Regularly attending and leading distributor meetings.
  • Keeping distributor management well-informed of company initiatives.
  • Tracking and measuring performance against key priorities.
• Promote the “Multiplier Effect” by training and motivating distributor sales reps on product knowledge, company sales techniques, brand pitches, and promotions.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key retailers in the assigned territory.
• Coordinate marketing crew drives in various locations in and outside of the assigned territory.
• Create and execute marketing promotions with customers, festivals, and events.
• Use distributor data and reporting tools to identify opportunities for new or expanded distribution, lost sales, incremental volume increases, and other business insights.
• Record daily sales activity and weekly results as required by the company and provide necessary back-up to support sales and bonus objectives.
• Meet and maintain sales goals set regularly with the Regional Sales Director.
• Communicate and collaborate with the Market Manager, Regional Sales Director, Marketing Manager, Key Account Team, Sales Management Team, and others to win at retail.
• Ensure the company’s quality standards are understood and enforced by distributors and retailers.
• Maintain an understanding of all legal restrictions regarding company products in each market and ensure all initiatives are executed within those limitations.
• Maintain a flexible work schedule, as weekends and extended workdays are often necessary.
• Uphold a professional appearance, keep a well-maintained and organized vehicle, and represent the company in a positive and reputable manner.
• Perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in the Beverage Alcohol Industry, preferably within the Beer Category.
• Experience in selling and merchandising in off- and on-premise retail account environments.
• Knowledge and experience within the 3-tier system, balancing wholesaler management and retail execution.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience; previous beer distributor or supplier experience is preferred.
• Must be 21 years or older.

Skills

• High energy and self-starter with a strong desire to execute and win at retail.
• Strong work ethic with attention to detail and ability to complete tasks independently.
• Excellent time management and ability to multi-task efficiently, prioritizing work around key business drivers.
• Strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to develop lasting, value-added relationships with stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills to pre-plan on a weekly and monthly basis and execute timely plans.
• Growth mindset with a strong desire to grow professionally and willingness to learn new skills.
• Ability to effectively manage and execute wholesaler objectives and initiatives.
• Knowledge of VIP iDig, Karma, and Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive).
• Understanding of common business/beer trade math.

Physical & Mental Requirements

• Must have the physical and mental strength and endurance to perform duties in extreme environments and handle operational and administrative stressors.
• Required to frequently lift and move 10-25 pounds.
• Expected to stand, sit, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, bend, talk, hear, taste, smell, see, and operate objects, tools, and controls.

Pay

$55,000 - $70,000 salary.

Schedule

• Full-time, exempt position.
• Flexible work schedule required; weekends and extended workdays are often necessary.
• Up to 30% travel; must have a reliable vehicle and a good driving record with personal liability auto insurance.