Director of Sales, Food Service

MRS GERRYS KITCHEN LLC•Albert Lea, MN

1d•Remote

About The Position

The Director of Sales, Food Service, is responsible for leading the Food Service Sales Team and managing all customer-facing sales activities within the food service channel. This role ensures that sales growth, customer satisfaction, and service objectives are achieved. This role will lead a team of sales managers and supporting brokers and reports to the Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing or related field required; MBA or advanced degree is desired
Minimum of 10 years of leadership experience, including at least five years at the management level or higher leading direct reports
Experience in food manufacturing required
Proven experience selling to national broadline food service customers
Demonstrated success developing joint business plans
Strong financial acumen, including forecasting, gap analysis, and performance management
Effective negotiator with the ability to build, retain, and deepen customer relationships
Ability to influence at all levels within a highly cross-matrixed organization
Hands-on, “roll-up your sleeves” leadership style- willing to dive into details while also maintaining strategic perspective
High integrity and strong character; models professional standards and behaviors for others
Strong coaching mindset focuses on developing talent, elevating team performance, and empowering others rather than directing
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and sales analytics tools
Excellent organizational and project management skills

Nice To Haves

Experience integrating brands/products from an acquisition desired.

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop the sales team, fostering collaboration and a growth mindset.
Conduct coaching sessions, performance reviews, and regular team meetings to support talent development.
Lead the food service sales pipeline from prospecting through close, ensuring strong pipeline health and growth.
Analyze market and sales trends, customer insights, and competitive activity to identify opportunities and guide decisions.
Develop and implement annual and quarterly sales strategies aligned with company goals.
Establish clear sales targets, KPIs, and performance benchmarks to drive high performance and accountability.
Drive execution of sales plans and manage performance gaps, partnering cross-functionally to identify and implement effective solutions.
Lead the planning and execution of the annual food service trade show process, ensuring efficiency and best practice deployment.
Prepare and deliver sales reports and performance updates to executive leadership.
Build and maintain strong relationships with customers to enhance business growth and retention.
Represent the company at industry events and conferences to elevate brand presence and foster new opportunities.
Perform other duties as assigned.