District Sales Manager - AWG Warehouses

Lewis Bakeries•Springfield, MO

36d•Hybrid

About The Position

The District Sales Manager – AWG Warehouse Accounts is responsible for driving sales growth, execution excellence, and operational performance across assigned Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) warehouse territories. Initially focused on the Springfield, Missouri AWG warehouse, this position serves as the primary field representative between Lewis Bakeries, AWG, independent retailers, and key account customers to ensure outstanding execution of Lewis brands. This role combines warehouse operations support, customer relationship management, retail execution, and business development to maximize sales opportunities while maintaining the high service standards Lewis Bakeries is known for. As the AWG program expands, this position may assume responsibility for additional warehouse territories.

Requirements

Minimum of three years of sales experience within consumer packaged goods (CPG), food manufacturing, wholesale distribution, or Direct Store Delivery (DSD).
Experience managing customer relationships with wholesalers, distributors, grocery retailers, or warehouse customers preferred.
Strong understanding of inventory management, forecasting, merchandising, and retail execution.
Excellent relationship-building, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while collaborating across multiple departments.
Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary Lewis Bakeries representative within the Springfield AWG warehouse.
Monitor daily warehouse operations to ensure Lewis programs are executed according to company standards.
Assist with purchase order management and forecast accuracy to support optimal inventory levels.
Monitor inventory performance, identify inventory issues, and coordinate corrective actions.
Manage basket return processes and improve asset utilization.
Coordinate with transportation teams to ensure efficient product movement and delivery performance.
Identify operational challenges and partner with internal and external stakeholders to implement solutions.
Support continuous improvement initiatives designed to strengthen warehouse execution and customer service.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key AWG customers, including major retail groups such as Harps Food Stores, Pyramid Foods, and other strategic accounts.
Conduct regular customer visits to understand business needs and identify growth opportunities.
Partner with customer leadership to improve sales performance, merchandising execution, and promotional effectiveness.
Resolve customer issues quickly while maintaining exceptional service levels.
Collaborate with internal Sales, Customer Service, Supply Chain, and Marketing teams to support customer initiatives.
Visit independent retail locations supplied through the Springfield AWG warehouse to ensure outstanding marketplace execution.
Monitor shelf conditions, product availability, merchandising standards, pricing, and promotional compliance.
Support new item launches, seasonal programs, and retail activations.
Identify opportunities to expand distribution and improve shelf presence.
Provide merchandising guidance and sales support to store operators.
Monitor competitive activity and communicate marketplace insights to leadership.
Build strong relationships with independent retailers to grow Lewis Bakeries' market share.
Support development of new warehouse partnerships and customer opportunities.
Assist with onboarding additional AWG warehouse customers as the program expands.
Prepare sales reports, customer updates, forecasts, and business reviews.
Collaborate with internal teams on strategic sales initiatives.
Maintain accurate customer records and activity documentation.
Participate in sales meetings, planning sessions, and training programs.

Benefits

Medical coverage with weekly premiums as low as $10 and a low-deductible plan design
Comprehensive dental coverage, including orthodontic benefits for dependent children
Company-funded pension plan
401(k) with company matching contributions
Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance
Paid vacation time
Paid holidays
Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
Professional development opportunities
Long-term career growth