Sales Manager- Fresh Produce Distribution #1508

Keller Executive Search

New Windsor, NY 12553, USA

Published: 6/14/2022

Full Time

Job Description

Our client, a respected produce distribution business serving the tri-state market, is looking for an accomplished sales leader to help elevate and modernize its sales and customer service function. This is an opportunity for a driven professional with strong perishables expertise to make a lasting impact in a well-established organization. The role is ideal for someone who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment and is eager to shape a high-performing commercial team. The company supplies fresh produce to supermarkets, chain restaurants, and local establishments throughout the region, and is seeking a leader who understands both the sales landscape and the operational demands of the industry. The successful candidate will bring proven leadership experience in perishables, a solid grasp of cold chain logistics, and the ability to take ownership of a team that includes experienced sales professionals and customer service staff.

Key Responsibilities

Sales Leadership & Strategy

Identify and win new business across wholesale, retail, and foodservice channels
Monitor key performance indicators such as sales volume, customer satisfaction, and profit margins
Develop and execute strategic sales initiatives to drive revenue growth and expand market reach
Evaluate market activity and customer demand to inform pricing and competitive positioning
Lead the sales team in carrying out business development efforts within the fresh produce sector

Operations & Customer Relations

Strengthen quality control processes and improve customer touchpoints
Build strong partnerships with warehouse and operations teams to support quality standards and delivery performance
Represent the client at trade events, industry functions, and customer meetings
Oversee contracts, negotiations, and credit arrangements with major accounts
Maintain and expand existing customer relationships while pursuing new opportunities

Reporting & Compliance

Work closely with procurement teams to support product availability and on-time fulfillment
Prepare sales reports, forecasts, and presentations for senior leadership
Maintain compliance with food handling and food safety standards

Team Management & Development

Coach, mentor, and assess team members to improve performance and effectiveness
Lead sales representatives and customer service personnel
Hold regular management meetings to reinforce accountability and performance expectations

Requirements

Required Qualifications

Strong team leadership skills with the ability to mentor and develop others
Deep knowledge of the produce supply chain, from growers through to the end customer
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Agriculture, Supply Chain, or a related discipline
Valid driver’s license
5+ years of sales experience within produce or the perishables sector
Proven success creating sales strategies and delivering against revenue goals
Ability to travel as needed for client meetings and industry events, including occasional international travel
Experience working in temperature-controlled distribution or logistics environments
Proficiency with CRM platforms and Microsoft Office
Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer relationship skills
2+ years of management or supervisory experience
Strong understanding of perishables logistics, cold chain operations, and customer requirements across wholesale, retail, and foodservice markets

Preferred Qualifications

Experience overseeing both direct sales and customer service operations
Track record of building or upgrading sales teams
Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English
Exposure to international accounts

Benefits

Salary: $100,000 base salary plus performance-based incentives

Benefits Package:

Comprehensive health insurance
401(k) with company match
Relocation assistance available for exceptional candidates

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

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Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

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Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

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Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
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Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment

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Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.