Market Manager

About the Role

Affinity Group is seeking an experienced Market Manager to lead the Wisconsin market from our Milwaukee‑area office. This hands‑on sales leader will coach and develop a team of approximately 15 sales associates, drive market growth, and strengthen relationships with clients, operators, and distributors. The Market Manager balances strategic leadership with hands‑on involvement in market execution, CRM discipline, and performance management.

Responsibilities

• Sales Leadership & Strategy
  • Involvement in all aspects of the regional sales force, including hiring, coaching, professional development, and performance management.
  • Establish sales goals, objectives, and KPIs aligned with company strategy; ensure consistent execution across market.
  • Provide clear direction and communicate the “why” behind sales strategies and initiatives.
• Team Development & Performance Management
  • Educate, encourage, and mentor sales representatives to achieve individual and regional performance objectives.
  • Conduct regular follow‑ups, field rides, and performance reviews; hold team members accountable for results.
  • Support a collaborative, high‑performance culture that prioritizes team success.
  • Lead trimester planning: conduct one‑on‑ones, set expectations, and review progress regularly.
• Principal & Client Relationship Management
  • Serve as the primary sales point of contact for local market principals.
  • Manage client expectations through proactive communication, alignment, and execution with the sales team.
  • Schedule and lead client work‑withs to reinforce strategy and drive opportunities.
• Market Execution & Business Reviews
  • Work closely with regional contacts to maintain and grow business by meeting established goals and objectives.
  • Conduct manufacturer and distributor business reviews to assess performance, identify opportunities, and align on next steps.
  • Manage communication and execution of bonus, promotion, and incentive initiatives.
• CRM, Reporting & Sales Operations
  • Oversee CRM usage, technology adoption, and data integrity across the sales team to ensure accurate reporting, forecasting, and insights.
  • Analyze sales performance, market trends, and competitive activity to inform strategic decisions.
  • Ensure timely completion of required reporting and administrative responsibilities.
• Industry Engagement & Representation
  • Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and meetings as determined by sales leadership.
  • Strengthen the company’s market presence through professional, consultative engagement with partners and customers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience considered.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive sales leadership experience, preferably within foodservice, distribution, or a broker/manufacturer environment.
• Proven track record of leading high‑performing sales teams and delivering consistent revenue growth.
• Collaborative leader who balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Skilled in coaching, mentoring, and developing talent through field engagement, feedback, and performance management processes.
• Ability to build and sustain a positive, high‑performance culture focused on results, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Open to feedback; contributes to a positive, high‑morale culture.
• Results‑driven while maintaining integrity and professionalism.
• Adaptable and comfortable leading through change.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) and CRM platforms.
• Ability to leverage data and digital tools to enhance team productivity, reporting, and communication.
• Core Competencies
  • Communication: Strong listening, written, and verbal skills.
  • Relationship Building: High emotional intelligence; ability to build trusted relationships with clients, principals, and internal teams.
  • Business Acumen: Understands financial and market implications of decisions; strong orientation to profitability and growth.
  • Planning & Organization: Excellent time management, prioritization, and goal‑setting skills.
  • Influence: Delivers consultative, impactful sales presentations and brings passion to serving others.
  • Accountability: Demonstrates self‑motivation, ownership, and follow‑through.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to perform essential job functions in office, warehouse, and restaurant environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, or climb for extended periods.
• May be exposed to dust; ability to lift and/or push up to 30 pounds.
• Flexible work hours, including occasional weekends.
• Travel within the assigned territory required; overnight travel may be necessary.