K-12 Sales Specialist (Food Broker)

SUMMARY: The Affinity Group Segment Specialist (K-12) is responsible for planning and executing a customized sales strategy for their unique segment of K-12 and education accounts. This position is deeply knowledgeable in key account segment and builds and maintains close relationships with the Food Service Directors and the Chefs at all assigned operators. The Segment Specialist (K-12) is always available to their clients, contacting them on a regular basis, participating in local functions, cutting/demonstrating products, training and educating the key personnel and always working to better understand their product needs.Duties and Responsibilities:Designs and implements customized sales strategies, in conjunction with the Director of K12 , aimed at their segment of key accountsWorks closely with the entire sales force and openly discusses go to market strategies, competitive reconnaissance, successes, and challengesStays up-to-date and knowledgeable about the operators in their account segment and acts as a resource and solution provider for their customersMaintains an in-depth knowledge of the key distributors in the local market in order to gain buy in and support to stock and sell distributors productsUnderstands each of the following for their strategic accounts: menu rotations, population and trends, desired cost structure in each segment of the menu, opportunities to penetrate or convert items, training and education of products, and multiple uses for productsMaintains an up to date profile folder of each customer; utilizes the CRM system weekly to report on sales call activity, updates and follow ups, in addition to customer profile managementCommunicates any changes of usage positive or negative, as well as changes on who will distribute to the strategic accountProvides sales results and updates to manufacturers on an as needed basisMaintains samples in assigned officeAddresses client’s quality control issues and communicates the process for resolving issuesParticipates in visits to key strategic accounts and has a prepared itinerary a week in. advanceIs able to cook food products and put menu combinations together to aid in the sale processOther duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:High School Diploma / GEDSome college preferred3+ years experience in the food industry sales or operations Ability to execute and follow through a sales planA positive, professional, and proactive attitudeStrong communication skillsWorks well with teams and has strong motivational skillsHolistic approach to menu planning with multiple brands and manufacturersExperts in tracking legislation and selling through regulations that impact district menusCulinary support to partner in practical meal planningKnow-how in leveraging commodity pricing and programsStewards of health and wellness initiativesLeaders in supporting hot trends like breakfast, after school meals, summer feeding programsInnovative marketing programs and K–12 industry partnershipsAdept at building trust and credibilityPlanning and organizational skillsStrong problem solving and strategic planning skillsUsing the CRM System dailyCall Reporting in CRM SystemMust have a valid driver’s licenseSupervisory and Reporting Responsibilities: This position does not have supervisory responsibilitiesReports to Director of K12 SalesPhysical Requirements/Working Conditions: Candidate must be able to perform the essential functions of the job. Work may be performed in an office or warehouse environment. Typically requires the ability to spend 66%+ hours each work day doing the following activities: Stand for extended periods of time, walk, bend, stoop, or climb. May have possible exposure to dust, and may require the ability to lift and/or push up to 50 pounds 33% - 66% of the time. Flexible work hours to accommodate demands of position (some weekends included)May require travel daily travel up to 75% of the time within territoryMay require some overnight travel occasionally. Pay Range $65,000- $72,000The Affinity Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. Powered by JazzHRp0G8QAC1nS