Route Sales District Manager

Second Nature Brands is a rapidly growing, private-equity-backed consumer packaged goods company with a portfolio of iconic snack and treat brands, including Kar's and Sanders, both proudly manufactured in Michigan. We are on a mission to scale the business from $500M to $1B in revenue over the next three years through a deliberate combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. This growth agenda is supported by ongoing investment in our brands, operations, systems, and people.The Route Sales District Manager (RSDM) is responsible for leading, coaching, and driving performance across a team of Direct Store Delivery (DSD) sales representatives within an assigned district. This role requires extensive hands-on experience in grocery, convenience, and chain retail environments, with a strong understanding of store-level execution, route sales management, and customer relationships. The DSM ensures sales growth, flawless execution, and adherence to company standards while developing a high-performing sales team.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, coach, and develop a team of DSD sales representatives to achieve volume, revenue, and distribution goalsDrive execution of sales initiatives, promotions, pricing, and merchandising standardsAnalyze sales data, KPIs, and route performance to identify opportunities and corrective actionsExecute district-level plans that align with company sales strategies and objectivesMaintain strong relationships with key grocery, convenience, and chain account decision-makersPartner with chain account managers to ensure compliance with authorized items, pricing, planograms, and promotionsConduct regular store visits to ensure in-stock levels, shelf placement, displays, and overall execution meet company standardsResolve customer issues quickly and professionally while protecting company interestsOversee route efficiency, coverage, and productivity across the districtEnsure compliance with DSD operational standards, inventory controls, and cash accountabilityCollaborate with warehouse, transportation, and operations teams to support service levels and growthSupport new item launches, resets, and major promotional rolloutsRecruit, onboard, train, and retain top-performing sales talentConduct regular ride-alongs, performance reviews, and coaching sessionsHold team members accountable to sales targets, service standards, and company policiesFoster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvementPrepare and submit accurate sales forecasts, performance reports, and action plansManage district budgets, expenses, and resource allocationEnsure compliance with all company policies, safety standards, and legal requirementsQualifications5+ years of progressive sales experience in a DSD environment3+ years of sales management experience, preferably as a District or Area Sales ManagerExtensive experience working with grocery, convenience, and chain retail accountsStrong understanding of route sales, merchandising, pricing, promotions, and retail executionProven ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing sales teamsStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication and relationship-building abilitiesProficient in Microsoft Office and sales reporting tools; SAP experience preferredValid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and ability to travel within the districtPreferred QualificationsBackground in food, beverage, or consumer packaged goods (CPG) industriesExperience working with national or regional chain accountsPhysical & Travel RequirementsFrequent travel within the district, including daily store visitsAbility to work flexible hours, including early mornings and occasional weekendsAbility to lift up to 50 pounds as required for store visits