Area Field Sales Manager

The Kraft Heinz Company•Chicago, IL

12d•$89,800 - $112,200

About The Position

The AFH Area Field Sales Manager is a high-impact leadership role responsible for driving sales growth, market expansion, and product adoption within an assigned territory. The role focuses on independent restaurants, multi-unit and regional chains, and non-commercial foodservice operators. The manager leads a Field Sales team, influences stakeholders, and drives strategic initiatives through sales leadership, business development, and relationship management. The position develops territory-specific strategies, identifies new business opportunities, manages customer and distributor relationships, and collaborates with internal partners to achieve company objectives. It includes field visits and travel of up to 35%, including in-person customer, distributor, and internal meetings. The role is based at the Chicago/Aon Center location.

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 foster long-term partnerships with distributors and key decision-makers.
Strong business acumen, including the ability to evaluate sales opportunities, secure profitable volume, and prioritize 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 compelling presentations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, 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 a proven ability to lead, develop, and manage a sales team.
Experience managing operators, QSR (Quick Service Restaurants), culinary, and/or retail industry accounts.
Cross-functional collaboration experience with marketing, supply chain, finance, and sales operations teams.
Salesforce experience 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 to maximize sales potential.
Conduct regular 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’s Field Sales team in alignment with Kraft Heinz sales priorities.
Provide training, sales strategy guidance, and business reviews to elevate team performance.
Establish a culture of accountability by tracking performance metrics and driving continuous improvement.
Foster a collaborative environment and equip the team with tools and resources.
Build and strengthen 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-level 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 records of sales activity, customer interactions, and market insights 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.

Benefits

Performance-based bonus, subject to plan terms and governing documents.
Healthcare coverage for employees and eligible dependents, including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision plans.
Paid time off and company holidays.
Leave of absence.
Flexible work arrangements.
Recognition, training, and learning opportunities.
Employee Assistance Program.
Wellbeing programs and family support programs.
401(k).
Life insurance.
Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage.
Disability coverage.
Screenings and assessments.
Physical, social, emotional, and financial wellbeing resources and events.