Key Account Manager

LaSalle Network; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical benefits

Dental and vision insurance

Potential for bonuses

Job summary

A leading food innovation firm is seeking a Key Account Manager to drive growth and manage strategic retail relationships in the North American market. The ideal candidate should have over 7 years of experience in the Food or FMCG sector, with at least 3 years managing major US retail accounts. Responsibilities include overseeing buyer relationships, developing business plans, and executing promotional strategies. The role offers a competitive salary between $130k-$150k, plus a 20% bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in Food or FMCG.
• 3+ years managing major US retail accounts.
• Proven track record in joint business planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day partnerships with key retail buyers.
• Develop and deliver annual business plans.
• Identify new opportunities through gap analysis.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Relationship management

Commercial growth

Adaptability

Communication skills

Industry knowledge in Bakery

Job description

Are you a commercially sharp sales professional with a passion for innovation in the food industry? We are recruiting for a Key Account Manager to join a global leader in the "free‑from" bakery category. This is a high‑impact role where you will own strategic retail relationships and drive growth across North America for a brand that is truly revolutionizing the grocery aisle.

Our client is a fast‑growing, international business headquartered in Dublin, with a massive footprint in major US retailers like Walmart, Costco, Target, and Whole Foods. They are looking for an ambitious self‑starter to help take their North American operations to the next level.

The Opportunity

As the Key Account Manager, you will be the face of the brand to major retail partners. You’ll manage buyer relationships, negotiate listings, and execute promotional plans that deliver mutual value. Working closely with marketing, supply chain, and category teams, you will ensure the brand continues to outperform the market through superior nutritional value and exceptional taste.

What You’ll Own

• Relationship Management: Lead day‑to‑day partnerships with key retail buyers, delivering category leadership and flawless execution.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and deliver annual business plans that align brand growth targets with customer priorities.
• Growth & Expansion: Identify new opportunities through gap analysis, product innovation, and new account acquisition.
• Operational Partnership: Manage forecasting and supply in collaboration with the operations team to ensure accuracy and continuity.
• Trade Strategy: Build and execute promotional plans to maximize profitability and brand visibility at key industry events and trade shows.

What You Bring

• 7+ years of experience in Food or FMCG (Fast‑Moving Consumer Goods).
• At least 3 years managing major US retail accounts (e.g., Safeway/Albertsons, Ahold, Whole Foods) and distributors like UNFI.
• Commercial Expertise: A proven track record in joint business planning, category management, and driving commercial growth.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional negotiation and relationship‑building abilities with the skill to tell the story behind the numbers.
• Adaptability: Experience navigating complexity and ambiguity in a fast‑paced, high‑growth environment.
• Industry Knowledge: Experience in the Bakery, Wraps, or Commercial Bread categories is a significant plus.

Please note this role pays a salary range between $130k-$150k with a 20% bonus.

New hires will also be eligible for full comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision.

Interested in shaping the future of the free‑from category? Apply today to discuss this opportunity in more detail!

Cas Ngiramowai
Recruiting Lead
LaSalle Network

LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.