Manage a team of entry-level sales/merchandising professionals to include oversight of sales and merchandising efforts in large chain grocery store accounts. Train, develop, and motivate team to foster the success of individual contributors and overall team success. Establish sales territory/account runs to maximize consultant visibility in the grocery store and minimize drive time. Conduct sales meetings and product presentation for sales team. Set forth sales strategies, merchandising techniques, and provide attainment plans to meet management and suppliers goals. Provide consistent and regular communication to team through weekly meetings and working alongside of merchandising professionals in the field. Collaborate with chain grocery store accounts in the region to eliminate obstacles which would prevent distribution goals from being met and resolve any concerns or questions impeding the success of sales consultants. Strategize with senior management and provide sales reports/results reflecting display activity in chain grocery store accounts. Analyze sales statistics and recommend policy developments to enhance the team’s sales figures and foster goal attainment. Partner with supplier community to understand their brands, sales goals/projections, and support in securing additional opportunities for increased distribution. Be familiar with competition and remain apprised of market trends and development within specific product categories, geographic regions, and grocery store accounts. Attend sales planning meetings/supplier tours and selling/information seminars. Develop and improve rapport/relationships with buyers and members of the trade through participation in food/wine and industry related events.

Oversee 38 established chain grocery store accounts (i.e. Safeway/Vons). Achieve distribution and growth objectives for Southern's portfolio of wine/spirits products within a specific geographic area and through effective account management of existing retail customers. Introduce new products, promote improved distribution, and ensure in-store promotion results.Stay abreast of business/market conditions, intensively plan sales efforts, recognize new opportunities within each account and maintain the necessary territory records.Build and develop the trust and confidence of the retailer through knowledge of spirits and wine products, persuasive presentations, and overcoming objections.Perform other work related duties and special projects as assigned.