Key Account Manager - Pet Specialty

About the role

Inaba Foods (USA) Inc. is seeking a Key Account Manager – Pet to develop and manage strategic relationships at the headquarters and regional level with national and regional retailers, as well as distributors, within the Pet Specialty channel. This role is responsible for driving growth, expanding distribution, and strengthening long-term partnerships while collaborating closely with internal teams to execute sales strategies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned customers and distributors, nurturing existing business and driving incremental growth
• Analyze historical and current purchase order data to project sales, assess profitability, and identify growth opportunities
• Lead and participate in customer business reviews and market presentations
• Maintain regular engagement with accounts to ensure customer needs are met or exceeded
• Execute promotional strategies and programs to drive volume and brand visibility
• Provide sales forecasts and input for production and demand planning
• Collaborate with executive leadership on pricing, promotions, quotes, and account strategies
• Resolve customer issues related to product, service, or sales execution
• Monitor competitive activity, market trends, and merchandising techniques
• Manage expenses in alignment with budgeted guidelines
• Demonstrate a growth-oriented, proactive sales approach focused on building and expanding strategic relationships
• Adequately adhere to all company policies, procedures, and ethical standards while representing Inaba in a professional manner
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, or a related field
• 3–7 years of experience in sales within Pet Specialty, Food & Beverage, or adjacent CPG categories
• Experience calling on headquarters, regional offices, and/or managing distributor relationships
• Strong ability to analyze trends, data, and sales performance metrics
• Proficiency in creating compelling PowerPoint sales presentations
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities
• Experience working cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners
• Ability to travel locally or regionally as needed, including time spent in the field
• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record, in accordance with company policy
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience
• Experience in a similar role within the pet specialty or adjacent CPG industries
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of pet food and pet care industry trends and best practices

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
• Strong organizational and time management skills

Benefits

Grow distribution and sales volume within assigned Pet Specialty accounts
Strengthen distributor relationships to expand market presence and execution
Build a trusted partnership with customers through strategic planning and consistent engagement
Contribute to category growth through promotions, pricing strategies, and market insights
Collaborate cross-functionally to support forecasting, production planning, and account strategy

Pay

The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $80,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

This is a full-time, in-office position based in Torrance, CA, as required by company leadership.