Foodservice Account Executive - Upper Midwest

General Mills, Inc.•Minneapolis, MN

45d•$81,000 - $121,700

About The Position

We're seeking a high-performing Account Executive (AE) to accelerate sales growth through strategic planning and impactful execution with key Foodservice Ingredient distributor and operator accounts. This role will be based in the upper Midwest. This AE covers a territory spanning Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. This role, you'll lead both broadline & independent distributor and operator relationships across the pizzeria and bakery industry. You'll identify new growth opportunities and lead efforts to strengthen customer loyalty in a fast-paced, competitive marketplace. This AE position offers a unique opportunity to lead and grow our distribution partners throughout the Upper Midwest. You will be responsible for growth through the introduction and execution of strategic sales plans and trade management. Strong candidates for this role will bring a high bias for action, with a proven track record in strategic sales planning, closing deals quickly, negotiating effectively, and building long-term relationships in an ever-changing business environment. You'll be an entrepreneur with the ability to interact with business owners and high-level executives selling market leading brands that are essential to the baking, pizza and commercial restaurant industry.

Requirements

2+ Years of Foodservice selling experience
Operator Management or Distributor Management experience
Ingredient or Commodity sales experience
Self-motivated with ability to maintain workload from remote office
Demonstrated track record of consistently meeting or exceeding sales targets
Strong understanding of the sales call process and ability to close deals efficiently
Valid driver's license with a good driving record

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's Degree
Flour selling experience
Trade Managementâ¯Experience

Responsibilities

Develop a deep understanding of customers, identifying and pursuing growth opportunities.
Lead sales planning and execution for assigned distributors and operators.
Use Salesforce daily to manage pipeline, track customer interactions, and drive sales execution.
Influence distributor sales teams to prioritize and sell General Mills products.
Design and implement tailored trade & marketing programs for accounts in your territory.
Create strategic plans to build a balanced, sustainable, and growing business with focus distributors and operators.
Serve as a trusted resource on flour pricing and wheat market trends.
Manage territory budgets effectively, including T&E and account-level investments, to maximize ROI.
Negotiate and manage distributor marketing agreements with a pay-for-performance and mutual benefit mindset.
Develop and deliver strategies that motivate Distributor Sales Representatives (DSRs) to promote General Mills products.
Provide training to DSRs on flour sales techniques and product knowledge.
Collaborate cross-functionally within North America Foodservice (NAF) and the broader FSI team to drive business growth.
Build credibility and strong working relationships with external partners to align on shared goals.
Confidently engage with stakeholders at all levels, including senior leadership.
Coordinate food shows, sales meetings, and customer product trainings
Diligent accountability for reporting material volume changes that will impact production, warehouse inventory levels, financials and volume outlook
Provide accurate and timely Demand and CTM forecasts