Business Development Manager

Gorilla USA Corp•Omaha, NE

15d•$75,000 - $90,000•Remote

About The Position

Gorilla Energy, a top 10 global energy brand, is disrupting the energy category and launched in the US in 2024. Backed by expertise across various beverage brands, Gorilla Energy is a unique startup with a history of success in delivering great-tasting items with transparent ingredients, as well as forging strong social and distribution partnerships. Join us as we grow and transform the energy drink market in the US! We are currently seeking a Business Development Manager to drive the distribution and sales of Gorilla Energy to independent retail outlets and ensure strong DSD execution across chain accounts. This role is crucial to our sales organization, as you will be on the front lines, ensuring our product reaches consumers and establishes a strong market presence. You will be responsible for building relationships with retailers, securing product placements, and executing promotional activities to boost brand awareness and sales. As we launch our operations in the US, your efforts will be instrumental in priming the market and driving our growth. The role will be assigned to a specific market area territory, and while it is remote, candidates must reside within 25 miles of their designated home market area. This position offers significant career growth opportunities as we expand our sales team and operations nationwide.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent relatable experience.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in the beverage/CPG industry.
Experience with DSD networks is strongly preferred.
Knowledge of VIP, KARMA, Excel.
Proficiency in using a smartphone/tablet for daily routing and sales tracking.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Up to 50% field-based travel with some overnight stays required.
70% of customer visits are within the Kansas City, Des Moines, and Omaha markets.
20% of customer visits are within 5-hour drive of home market with potential overnight stay.
10% of customer visits are 5+ hour drive and/or flight with overnight stay.
Willingness to support market launches and blitzes outside of home territory.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Access to a reliable personal vehicle capable of transporting up to 20 sample cases (12-count case of 16oz cans).

Responsibilities

Own business development process across assigned territory of Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska
Collaborate with store owners and decision-makers to secure and maintain new distribution of Gorilla Energy in assigned market area territories.
Communicate local retail opportunities to DSD partners
Improve existing retailer performance through SKU expansion, off shelf POI, etc.
Implement shelf resets to incorporate samples of Gorilla Energy.
Place Point of Sale (POS) material, including shelf tags, brand awareness materials, and displays.
Provide training and support to store owners on ordering processes through Gorilla Energy's Direct Store Delivery (DSD) partners.
Educate store decision-makers on the Gorilla Energy brand and its benefits.
Attend team meetings as directed by your manager, typically through team calls.
Utilize the Gorilla Customer Management App on your phone to route, schedule, and plan your day/week effectively.
Analyze data from the Gorilla app to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
Proactively share best practices and competitor insights with team members.
Provide feedback on continuous improvement in ways of working.