Sales Representative (Commission)

Great Lakes Wine & Spirits is Michigan's largest alcoholic beverage wholesaler, servicing all 83 Michigan counties. Founded as a family business nearly 80 years ago, the company employs over 1,000 people and operates facilities throughout the state.

About the role

This is a field-based sales role focused on selling, servicing, developing, and growing the GLWAS portfolio of products within established grocery-chain customer accounts in Plymouth. The position provides an introduction to both sales and the adult beverage industry, with opportunities for upward mobility into on-premise, independent, or management roles based on performance.

Responsibilities

• Back-stock shelves, sell programs, straighten and beautify the department, and write orders for upcoming delivery days.
• Merchandise orders for shelving and displaying on delivery days.
• Grow total territory volume and revenue while achieving company growth objectives.
• Achieve monthly objectives on priority brands, specified programs, and qualitative initiatives.
• Generate positive business relationships with decision makers in assigned accounts.
• Execute assigned headquarters programs from major customers.
• Present prepared, professional, persuasive, fact-based, and personalized sales presentations.
• Develop and maintain product knowledge on GLWAS products.
• Attend weekly and monthly team meetings to discuss objectives, progress, and outstanding issues.
• Demonstrate initiative to grow overall spirits, beverage, and category knowledge.
• Maintain account 'Standards of Performance' through account conditions.
• Ensure product is clean, rotated, and saleable.
• Post retail pricing accurately and in a timely manner.
• Ensure point-of-sale is accurate, relevant, up-to-date, and advantageously placed.
• Consistently service accounts as outlined on the Master Route.
• Utilize surveys, control books, planners, and tracking forms to execute priorities.
• Communicate proactively with customers and management.
• Align daily activities to company needs and priorities.
• Ensure vehicle is clean, organized, and properly stocked with adequate point-of-sale materials.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position operates in the field with daily travel, driving in all weather conditions. Physical demands include:

• Frequently standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, stooping, and climbing throughout the day.
• Lifting, stacking, moving, and rotating items without handles that weigh up to 50 pounds.
• Pushing and pulling carts with up to 100 pounds of force.
• Operating warehouse equipment as needed.

Schedule

This is a full-time position with a flexible schedule Sunday through Friday. Evening and weekend hours may be required based on holiday schedules and business needs. If the master route is satisfied and stores are adequately serviced, representatives may set their own schedule.

Pay & Benefits

• $45,000 - $47,000 per year (estimated total gross earnings).
• $300 monthly car allowance (non-taxed).
• Vacation and personal time.
• 6 paid holidays.
• Competitive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Programs and Group Legal coverage.
• Optional buy-up life insurance and disability coverage.
• Eligible for 401K enrollment upon date of hire.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 21 years.
• High School Diploma or GED (bachelor's degree preferred).
• Sales experience (2 years preferred).
• Retail experience (2 years preferred).
• Proficient in Microsoft and iOS devices (Outlook, Excel, iPad).
• Positive and entrepreneurial attitude.
• Success-oriented, competitive, and creative mindset.
• Desire to learn and implement new skills.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Additional Requirements

• Adhere to company policies and procedures, including those outlined in the employee policy manual and applicable contracts.
• Cooperate with all management and staff of GLWAS.
• Follow all Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) rules and regulations.
• Use alcohol responsibly when related to business activities.

All offers of employment are conditional based on satisfactory completion of pre-employment screenings, including a background check, physical evaluation, agility (lift) test, and drug screen. A valid driver's license and acceptable MVR are required. Applicants will be subject to a driving record check, and failure to maintain a satisfactory driving record may result in withdrawal of the employment offer or disciplinary action.