Sales Rep, Retail

HP Hood; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Wellness programs

Tuition reimbursement

Retirement plans

Job summary

HP Hood is seeking a Retail Sales Representative to drive sales and manage relationships with grocery chains and other outlets across the Massachusetts region. The candidate should excel in presenting products, meeting targets, and coordinating promotions to maximize shelf presence.

Ideal candidates have 3–5 years in consumer products sales, strong communication, and proficiency in CRM and merchandising software. The role requires travel within the territory and a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in business or related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of sales or retail experience with consumer products desirable but not required.
• Familiarity with retail trends and consumer behavior.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with CRM and merchandising software such as Nielsen/IRI.

Responsibilities

• Achieve sales targets and grow market share within the territory.
• Build and maintain relationships with store managers, buyers, and key decision-makers.
• Conduct product presentations and demonstrations to increase visibility and sales.
• Support promotional activities, new product launches, and seasonal campaigns in retail stores.
• Track and report sales performance against KPIs.

Skills

Sales skills

CRM proficiency

Negotiation skills

Communication

Time management

Independent work

Education

BA/BS in business or related field

Tools

CRM software

Merchandising software

Nielsen

IRI

Job description

Are you a self-driven person looking to advance your career as a high-impact player on a team? If so, we have an exciting challenge for you and your future!

Our culture is built on value commitments to innovation, quality, results, integrity, community, people, and collaboration that fosters a strong employee engagement, teamwork, safety and wellness. We offer a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, wellness programs, employee discounts, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, ongoing development, advancement opportunities and more.

Founded in 1846, today HP Hood is one of the largest and most trusted food and beverage manufacturers in the United States. Our portfolio of national and super-regional brands and licensed products includes Hood, Heluva Good, Lactaid, Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, Planet Oat and more.

Job Summary:

The Retail Sales Representative is responsible for representing our brand, driving sales, and maintaining strong relationships with retail partners, including grocery stores, supermarkets, and other food & beverage outlets. The ideal candidate will have a passion for consumer products, excellent communication skills, and the ability to meet sales targets in a fast-paced retail environment.

Territory runs up and down 495 (to include but not limited to: Boxborough, MA; Pepperell, MA; Bedford, MA; Methuen, MA) Ideal candidate should reside in/near Chelmsford, MA.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Sales and Account Management:

• Achieve sales targets and contribute to the growth of the company's market share within assigned territory.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with store managers, buyers, and key decision-makers.
• Conduct product presentations and demonstrations to retail staff and customers to increase product visibility and sales.
• Support and execute promotional activities, new product launches, and seasonal campaigns in retail stores.

Product Knowledge & Inventory Management:

• Provide detailed knowledge about our food and beverage products to retailers and customers, ensuring they understand the value proposition of each product.
• Ensure optimal product placement, signage, and displays in-store to drive sales.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate stock replenishment to avoid out-of-stock situations.

Customer Service & Relationship Building:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for retail accounts and resolve any customer issues or concerns in a timely and professional manner.
• Train retail staff on product features, benefits, and promotions to enhance customer engagement and sales performance.
• Provide regular feedback on customer trends, market conditions, and competitor activities to help shape future sales strategies.
• Foster strong, long-term relationships with key retail clients to ensure loyalty and continued business.

Sales Reporting & Market Analysis:

• Track and report sales performance against targets and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Stay informed about market trends, competitor products, and industry developments to effectively position the company’s products.
• Submit timely and accurate reports on sales activities, customer interactions, and any issues encountered.
• Maintain accurate records of sales transactions, customer interactions, and deliveries.

Education and Experience:

• BA/BS Degree in business or a related field, preferred.
• 3-5 years of sales experience or retail experience with a consumer package goods manufacturer, major food broker, or retail services company desirable but not required.
• Familiarity with retail industry trends and consumer behavior.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Experience with CRM and merchandising software. (e. Nielsen, IRI etc.

Skills and Competencies :

• Demonstrates strong business, product, and market understanding to align sales strategies with company goals and make informed, data-driven decisions.
• Effectively utilizes sales tools and CRM systems, delivers clear product presentations, and applies negotiation skills to close deals and build strong customer relationships.
• Develops trust-based connections with customers and stakeholders through effective communication, active listening, and approachability.
• Consistently meets sales targets by demonstrating a winning mindset, persistence, and a strong drive for results.
• Thrives in dynamic environments by showing flexibility, handling ambiguity, and bouncing back from setbacks with a positive attitude.
• Takes ownership of responsibilities, manages time effectively, and works independently with minimal supervision.
• Shares knowledge openly, supports team goals, and maintains professionalism in managing conflicts.
• Delivers clear, tailored messages to internal teams and customers while using probing techniques to uncover needs.
• Maintains integrity in all interactions and fosters trust through honesty, humility, and emotional intelligence.

Other:

• Ability to lift and carry products, boxes, and promotional materials as needed (up to 30-50 lbs).
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during store visits.
• Regular travel to assigned retail locations within the territory is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience and location.

HP Hood is an Equal Opportunity Employer

For Applicants in Massachusetts - It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Employment is subject to verification of an applicant’s identity and eligibility for employment in the United States as required by immigration laws. We are unable to assist with sponsorship at this time.

As set forth in HP Hood’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy,we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law.