Area Field Sales Manager

Kraft Heinz•Chicago, IL

11d

About The Position

The AFH Area Field Sales Manager is a leadership role responsible for driving sales growth, market expansion, and product adoption within an assigned territory. The role serves independent restaurants, multi-unit and regional chains, and non-commercial foodservice operators. The manager leads a field sales team, builds relationships with operators and distributors, and works with internal partners to execute sales strategies and company objectives. The position develops territory-specific strategies, identifies new business opportunities, supports pricing and contract negotiations, and oversees business plans, forecasts, and performance goals. It also monitors market trends and competitive activity, uses CRM and analytics to guide decisions, and represents Kraft Heinz at customer meetings and industry events. The role is based at the Chicago/Aon Center location and requires travel of up to 35%.

Requirements

3 to 5 years of sales experience, preferably in foodservice, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or a related industry.
Demonstrated success in major account management, securing new business, and driving profitable growth.
Strong relationship-building skills and ability to build long-term partnerships with distributors and key decision-makers.
Strong business acumen, including evaluating sales opportunities, securing profitable volume, and prioritizing efforts strategically.
Data-driven mindset and experience using CRM tools and analytics for sales tracking, business planning, and strategy development.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills, including the ability to influence stakeholders and deliver presentations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when needed, such as when delivering customer samples.
Valid driver's license and ability to meet MVR requirements.
Willingness to travel up to 35%, including in-person meetings with customers, distributors, and internal teams.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, sales, or a related field; equivalent education and experience will be considered.
People management experience and proven ability to lead, develop, and manage a sales team.
Experience managing operator, QSR (Quick Service Restaurants), culinary, and/or retail industry accounts.
Cross-functional collaboration experience with marketing, supply chain, finance, and sales operations teams.
Experience with Salesforce is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute territory-specific sales strategies to accelerate product adoption and revenue growth.
Identify and capture new business opportunities using insights and data-driven decision-making.
Lead pricing discussions, contract negotiations, and promotional planning.
Conduct field visits to strengthen operator relationships, support sales execution, and drive results.
Represent Kraft Heinz at industry events, trade shows, and key customer meetings.
Lead, coach, and develop the territory Field Sales team.
Provide training, sales strategy guidance, and business reviews to improve team performance.
Track performance metrics, promote accountability, and drive continuous improvement.
Foster a collaborative environment and ensure the team has the tools and resources it needs.
Build relationships with key operators to drive brand preference and long-term loyalty.
Collaborate with distributor teams to execute marketing programs, optimize distribution, and improve field execution.
Partner with Marketing, Category Management, Finance, and other internal teams to align field sales efforts with company objectives.
Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and customer insights, adjusting strategies as needed.
Develop and manage business plans, sales forecasts, and performance goals for assigned markets.
Maintain accurate sales activity, customer interaction, and market insight records using CRM tools such as Salesforce.
Assist in developing marketing materials, sales tools, and promotional campaigns.
Stay informed about industry trends and market dynamics and refine strategies for competitive advantage.