Strategic Key Account Manager, Pet Specialty

gpac; Oak Brook (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

gpac is partnered with a growing premium CPG manufacturer seeking a Key Account Manager - Pet Specialty to join its sales team in Oak Brook, IL. The role focuses on managing strategic Pet Specialty customers and distributors, growing sales, and strengthening long-term relationships.

The ideal candidate has background in Pet Specialty, Pet CPG, Food & Beverage, or related consumer products category and will handle relationship management, business development, and account strategy.

Qualifications

• 3-7 years of sales or key account management experience
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, or related field
• Pet Specialty, CPG, Food & Beverage, or related industry experience preferred
• Experience working with retail headquarters, regional offices, and/or distributors
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to analyze sales data and identify business opportunities
• Experience creating and presenting PowerPoint sales presentations
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities
• Experience working cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to travel locally or regionally
• Must be comfortable working in-office in Oak Brook, IL

Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with assigned Pet Specialty retailers and distributors
• Serve as the primary point of contact for key customers
• Develop strategies to increase sales, distribution, and market presence
• Analyze historical and current purchase order data to identify growth opportunities
• Evaluate sales performance, trends, and account profitability
• Lead and participate in customer business reviews and sales presentations
• Develop and execute promotional strategies and programs
• Provide sales forecasts and input for production and demand planning
• Partner with leadership on pricing, promotions, quotes, and account strategies
• Resolve customer issues related to products, service, or sales execution
• Monitor competitive activity, market trends, and merchandising strategies
• Maintain regular communication with customers and distributors
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal sales, operations, production, and leadership teams
• Manage expenses in accordance with company guidelines
• Travel locally or regionally as needed

Skills

Sales experience

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Marketing/Sales or related field

Tools

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

Office suite

Job description

gpac is partnered with a growing premium CPG manufacturer seeking a Key Account Manager - Pet Specialty to join its sales team in Oak Brook, IL. The role focuses on managing strategic Pet Specialty customers and distributors, growing sales, and strengthening long-term relationships.

The ideal candidate has background in Pet Specialty, Pet CPG, Food & Beverage, or related consumer products category and will handle relationship management, business development, and account strategy.