Customer Development Representative - Field Sales - CHEF'STORE

US Foods • Hampton, VA

15d • $22 - $34 • Remote

About The Position

The Customer Development Representative - Field Sales is responsible for driving new customer acquisition, growing existing accounts, and representing CHEF’STORE as a trusted partner to foodservice operators. This role focuses on building strong relationships with customers while identifying product solutions that support their menu, operational, and budgetary needs. The Field Sales Representative works closely with store teams and internal partners to deliver exceptional service and profitable growth within an assigned market.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year CHEF’STORE leadership experience, or 2 years of experience in food service, retail sales, or a related field, including at least 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience in a retail food service environment.
• Demonstrated experience driving sales, building strong customer relationships, and delivering exceptional customer service and results in a customer-facing environment with a diverse customer base.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organization, problem-solving, and negotiation skills, including active listening and relationship-building.
• Highly self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and accountability, and the ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and manage a field-based schedule with minimal supervision.
• Ability to think critically, make sound business decisions, and apply strong judgment and logic.
• Strong planning and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to present information clearly and respond to questions from internal and external stakeholders.
• Flexibility adapting to changing business needs and working a variable schedule as required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and CRM systems.
• Travel up to 90% with occasional overnights.
• Valid driver’s license required & motor vehicle record must be in good standing.
• Associate’s degree or equivalent work experience required.

Nice To Haves

• Food Service Background with Sales Experience Preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Supply Chain/Wholesale Management, or Accounting / Finance strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Acquire new food service customers by planning and prioritizing engagement across independent restaurants, chains, caterers, institutional kitchens, and hospitality operators.
• Execute effective in-person customer visits to uncover menu needs, volume requirements, and operational challenges.
• Present comprehensive product solutions including proteins, produce, dry goods, disposables, and equipment, to ensure offerings align with customer applications, cost structures, and growth opportunities.
• Promote adoption of seasonal items, new products, and vendor programs to help operators manage costs and enhance menu offerings.
• Maintain strong product knowledge across food categories, including food safety standards, specifications, pack sizes, and substitutions.
• Analyze customer purchasing trends to recommend cost efficient alternatives, optimal order frequency, and strategies to minimize supply risk.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with chefs, owners, general managers, and purchasing leaders to drive retention and loyalty.
• Partner cross-functionally with store teams and internal stakeholders to ensure accurate fulfillment, proactive communication, and timely issue resolution.
• Monitor competitive activity and adjust sales approach and product focus to maintain and grow market share.
• Maintain accurate CRM records including activity tracking, pipeline management, and follow up tasks.
• Meet or exceed sales goals that support case growth, category penetration, and revenue targets with set expectations of customer card signups, initial coupon execution and future shops tied to tracked customer cards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Compensation depends on relevant experience and/or education, specific skills, function, geographic location, and other factors as applicable by law (for example: state or local minimum wage thresholds). The expected base rate for this role is between $22 - $34

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree