Director of Customer Sales - East Region for blithequark, Focusing on Strategic Growth within the Kroger Division

Join blithequark, a Trailblazer in Sports Nutrition and Hydration

At blithequark, we're not just another company; we're game-changers in the world of sports and active hydration. Our dynamic environment thrives on the passion and teamwork of our brand builders who are dedicated to innovating and leading the market. As part of the blithequark team, you'll be backed by the resources and insights of a global icon, giving you the entrepreneurial spirit and the tools to exceed expectations and achieve remarkable results.

About the Role: Director, Customer Sales - East, Kroger

We're on the hunt for a seasoned Director of Customer Sales to spearhead our business in the East region, particularly within the Kroger division. As a key leader at blithequark, you'll be instrumental in driving our business forward through strategic planning, negotiation, and execution. Your expertise will be crucial in resolving complex customer issues and ensuring we hit our annual goals.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Development

• Lead the Kroger divisional relationship and bottler network in the East territory, ensuring alignment and execution to achieve aggressive business targets.
• Drive the processes and execution of annual plans across assigned customers and bottlers, focusing on topline results and key financial metrics.
• Partner with Senior Management and cross-functional teams to build Annual Plans that meet both short-term and long-term business objectives.
• Develop and implement division customer selling stories, providing insights to deliver key execution metrics.
• Oversee ongoing account updates and performance reporting, problem-solving plan gaps, and bringing forward recommendations.

System Leadership

• Participate in system routines to provide customer updates and action plans.
• Work closely with sales teams to maximize mutual goals and execution.
• Build and leverage relationships with both blithequark teams and Bottlers to ensure alignment on customer objectives.

Cross-Functional Communication and Collaboration

• Provide ongoing updates on customer plan results and opportunities to blithequark management.
• Participate in cross-functional routines to ensure flawless execution of customer programs.
• Offer customer input to annual plans, including Marketing, Commercial, and Innovation plans.

Organizational Development

• Leverage cross-functional resources to deliver best-in-class capabilities to customers.
• Manage the annual T&E budget for the department, ensuring alignment with internal financial objectives.

Requirements and Qualifications

To succeed in this role, you should have:

• A Bachelor's Degree or relevant experience.
• At least 8 years of direct sales experience in the CPG industry, with a proven track record of selling into national and regional channel customers.
• Experience working in the Eastern US, particularly within the Kroger market.
• Recent experience with Kroger and a DSD beverage background are preferred.
• A self-motivated and highly organized individual with an entrepreneurial spirit.
• The ability to assess business needs, develop action plans, and manage change effectively.
• A passion for building brands, new products, and driving long-term growth.
• A verifiable list of current contacts with buyers and divisional managers.
• Solid computer skills, including Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and Word, along with a strong understanding of Nielsen/IRI syndicated data.

Essential Skills: Direct Selling, Results-Oriented, Consumer Trends, Key Performance Indicators (KPI), Business Results, Consumer Segmentation, Competitor Analysis, Data Insights, Entrepreneurship, Sales, Customer Sales.

What We Offer

At blithequark, we're committed to the growth and development of our team members. As a Director of Customer Sales, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Develop valuable relationships and networks within the industry.
• Work in a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Access resources and insights from a global leader.
• Enjoy a competitive compensation package and benefits.
• Participate in a culture that values teamwork, passion, and fun.

Our company culture is built on the principles of innovation, collaboration, and customer satisfaction. We believe in fostering a work environment that is inclusive, supportive, and challenging. As a member of our team, you'll be part of a community that is dedicated to making a difference in the world of sports and active hydration.

Compensation and Benefits

While specific details may vary, we offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive salary, bonuses, and a range of benefits designed to support your well-being and career development. Our benefits package includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, among other perks.

Conclusion

If you're a driven sales professional with a passion for building brands and driving growth, we want to hear from you. Join blithequark as a Director of Customer Sales - East, Kroger, and be part of a team that's changing the game in sports nutrition and hydration. Apply now to take the first step towards a rewarding career with a company that's making a real impact.