Chain Account Manager

Columbia Distributing•Anchorage, AK

8h•Onsite

About The Position

Account Managers are essential to Columbia Distributing's success. Each Account Manager is responsible for advancing and securing beverage sales in the market, performing functions to secure new business accounts and facilitating the needs of the existing sales accounts. This is accomplished through territory planning, selling, merchandising and communicating the achievement of company and supplier objectives. Account Managers responsible for developing and growing Columbia Distributing's presence within a portfolio of high-value on-premise and select premium off-premise accounts. Reporting to the Director of On-Premise Wine & Spirits, this role emphasizes strategic account management, relationship-building, and consultative selling--delivering tailored solutions that elevate both customer experience and supplier brand equity.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of wine and spirits, including varietals, regions, production, and trends
Proven consultative selling and negotiation skills
Ability to build and sustain relationships with high-value customers
Strategic thinking and business planning capability
Strong communication and presentation skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM tools
Excellent organizational and time management
High School diploma or GED required
Minimum five (5) years of sales or account management experience in beverage, hospitality, or related industry
Demonstrated experience managing customer relationships and growing revenue
Valid driver's license and auto insurance

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree preferred
Advanced wine and spirits certifications (e.g., WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, or equivalent) strongly preferred
Experience working with premium or luxury accounts
Knowledge of local market and competitive landscape

Responsibilities

Own and manage a portfolio of premium accounts, building long-term partnerships with key decision-makers
Develop and execute account-specific business plans focused on revenue growth, brand mix, and premiumization
Identify opportunities to expand distribution, increase share of wallet, and introduce new and emerging premium brands
Prioritize growth within on-premise accounts (e.g., restaurants, bars, hotels) and other designated premium channels
Align account strategies with Director-led channel priorities and supplier initiatives
Serve as a trusted advisor to accounts by providing insights on wine and spirits trends, category performance, and consumer preferences
Curate and present tailored product assortments aligned to each account's concept, clientele, and business goals
Drive portfolio mix toward higher-margin and premium offerings in partnership with suppliers
Partner with supplier representatives to deliver high-impact brand activations and promotions within accounts
Ensure execution of brand standards, visibility, and positioning consistent with premium brand expectations
Support new product launches and seasonal programming
Partner closely with the Director, On-Premise Wine & Spirits and supplier partners to execute channel-specific programs and priorities
Achieve and exceed sales, distribution, and profitability targets for assigned accounts
Analyze sales data, account performance, and market trends to inform strategy and identify opportunities
Maintain and regularly update account plans, forecasts, and pipeline activity
Coordinate with internal teams (operations, customer service, finance) to ensure seamless execution and customer satisfaction
Manage inventory levels, order accuracy, and product availability within accounts
Complete all required reporting (preplans, forecasts, expense reports, CRM updates, etc.) accurately and on time
Support the operations team aligning our sales strategy with our service policy, finding solutions to efficiently meet customer wants and needs.