Foodservice Sales Manager

Eminence Talent Group; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading foodservice company is seeking an experienced Foodservice Sales Manager to lead sales efforts and expand presence in the market. The ideal candidate will have proven foodservice sales experience and the ability to thrive in a dynamic startup environment. Responsibilities include managing the sales funnel, building relationships with industry decision-makers, and driving business growth through strategic initiatives. Travel flexibility is required for industry engagement.

Qualifications

• Proven success in foodservice sales and relationship building.
• Experience working directly with foodservice operators and distributors.
• Strong understanding of the foodservice sector and its dynamics.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage the sales funnel from lead generation to closing.
• Leverage industry relationships for business development.
• Build relationships with key foodservice stakeholders.
• Implement targeted strategies to drive sales and achieve growth.
• Stay informed about foodservice market trends and competitor activities.

Skills

Foodservice sales experience

Business development

Communication skills

Data-driven decision making

Established network

Tools

CRM tools

Excel

Job description

Foodservice Sales Manager (Multiple locations in Seattle, WA, Chicago, IL, and New York, NY)

We are looking for an experienced and driven Foodservice Sales Manager to lead our sales efforts and expand our presence in the foodservice market. This role requires a hands-on, proactive approach to building relationships, driving sales, and executing our sales strategy across multiple foodservice channels. If you are passionate about sustainable food and thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

• Sales Management: Own and manage the sales funnel from lead generation to closing, ensuring consistent pipeline progress.
• Business Development: Leverage industry relationships and develop new connections with decision-makers in restaurants, hospitality groups, and institutional foodservice.
• Distributor Partnerships: Collaborate with existing distributors while identifying and onboarding new partners to expand market reach.
• Customer Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key foodservice stakeholders, including operators, brokers, and consultants.
• Sales Strategy Execution: Implement targeted strategies to increase brand awareness, drive sales, and achieve business growth objectives.
• Market & Competitor Analysis: Stay informed about foodservice market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities.
• CRM & Reporting: Manage the sales CRM system, ensuring accurate records of sales activities, and provide regular updates on key performance metrics.
• Industry Representation: Attend trade shows, industry events, and networking opportunities to enhance brand visibility and build relationships with key opinion leaders.
• Marketing Collaboration: Work closely with the marketing team to align sales efforts with promotional activities and campaigns.

What Were Looking For

• Proven Foodservice Sales Experience: Proven success in foodservice sales, business development, or account management. Experience working directly with foodservice operators, distributors, and brokers is required.
• Industry Expertise: Strong understanding of the foodservice sector, including restaurant chains, hospitality groups, institutional catering, and other key channels.
• Established Network: Pre-existing relationships with foodservice operators, distributors, and key industry decision-makers.
• Hands-On Approach: A proactive, results-oriented sales professional who can take initiative and deliver measurable growth.
• Startup Mindset: Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, with an entrepreneurial and problem-solving attitude.
• Communication & Presentation Skills:Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, with experience in delivering compelling presentations to potential clients.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Proficiency in using CRM tools and Excel for sales tracking and reporting.
• Travel Flexibility: Willingness to travel as needed to engage with customers, attend industry events, and support sales efforts.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of an innovative, mission-driven company at the forefront of the plant-based food revolution. If you have the foodservice sales experience and the drive to grow a brand in this space, we'd love to hear from you!