Key Account Manager - Food, Drug, and Mass
Occupations:
Sales ManagersSales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific ProductsSales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific ProductsFirst-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales WorkersSales Representatives of Services, Except Advertising, Insurance, Financial Services, and TravelIndustries:
Drugs and Druggists' Sundries Merchant WholesalersGrocery and Related Product Merchant WholesalersSpecialty Food RetailersMiscellaneous Durable Goods Merchant WholesalersPromoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar EventsKey Account Manager – Food, Drug, and Mass (FDM)Location: Torrance, CA (In-Office)Reports to: Sr. Sales ManagerCategory Focus: Food, Drug, and Mass (FDM)About Inaba Foods (USA) Inc.Inaba Foods is a manufacturer of premium pet food, treats, toppers, and complements, deeply rooted in a family tradition of excellence that spans generations. Since 1958, pet parents have trusted Inaba to deliver products that are human-grade, nutrient-rich, and designed to bring joy to pets.Today, Inaba is the most popular brand of premium cat and dog dinners and treats in Japan, with growing distribution throughout the United States and globally. Inaba Foods (USA) Inc. continues to expand its footprint, invest in talent, and build long-term partnerships across the pet industry, supported by the stability and vision of our Japanese parent company.Position SummaryInaba Foods (USA) Inc. is seeking a Key Account Manager – to develop and manage strategic relationships at the headquarters and regional level with national and regional retailers, as well as distributors, within the Food, Drug, and Mass 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.This is a full-time, in-office position based in Torrance, CA, as required by company leadership.What Success Looks Like In This RoleGrow distribution and sales volume within assigned Food. Drug, and Mass accountsStrengthen distributor relationships to expand market presence and executionBecome a trusted partner to customers through strategic planning and consistent engagementContribute to category growth through promotions, pricing strategies, and market insightsCollaborate cross-functionally to support forecasting, production planning, and account strategyKey ResponsibilitiesServe as the primary point of contact for assigned customers and distributors, nurturing existing business and driving incremental growthAnalyze historical and current purchase order data to project sales, assess profitability, and identify growth opportunitiesLead and participate in customer business reviews and market presentationsMaintain regular engagement with accounts to ensure customer needs are met or exceededExecute promotional strategies and programs to drive volume and brand visibilityProvide sales forecasts and input for production and demand planningCollaborate with executive leadership on pricing, promotions, quotes, and account strategiesResolve customer issues related to product, service, or sales executionMonitor competitive activity, market trends, and merchandising techniquesManage expenses in alignment with budgeted guidelinesDemonstrate a growth-oriented, proactive sales approach focused on building and expanding strategic relationshipsAdhere to all company policies, procedures, and ethical standards while representing Inaba in a professional mannerPerform additional duties as assignedMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, or a related field3–7 years of experience in sales within Pet Specialty, Food & Beverage, or adjacent CPG categoriesExperience calling on headquarters, regional offices, and/or managing distributor relationshipsStrong ability to analyze trends, data, and sales performance metricsProficiency in creating compelling PowerPoint sales presentationsExcellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skillsHighly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple prioritiesExperience working cross-functionally with internal teams and external partnersAbility to travel locally or regionally as needed, including time spent in the fieldValid driver’s license with a safe driving record, in accordance with company policyAdvanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related softwareWhy Join Inaba FoodsGrowing U.S. business with expanding distribution and increasing market presenceLong-term stability and leadership from a well-established Japanese parent companyOpportunity to manage meaningful accounts and influence growth strategyCollaborative, professional environment with a strong brand reputationInaba Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment laws, including California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act.This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.