Key Account Manager - Pet Specialty
About The Position
Inaba Foods (USA) Inc. is seeking a Key Account Manager to develop and manage strategic relationships with national and regional retailers and distributors in the Pet Specialty channel. The role is responsible for driving growth, expanding distribution, and strengthening long-term partnerships while collaborating with internal teams to execute sales strategies. This is a full-time, in-office position based in Torrance, California. The position reports to the Senior Sales Manager and focuses on the Pet Specialty category. The Key Account Manager serves as the primary contact for assigned customers and distributors, supports account growth and execution, contributes to forecasting and production planning, and works with executive leadership on account strategies, pricing, promotions, and quotes. Local or regional travel, including field time, may be needed.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, or a related field.
- 3–7 years of sales experience in Pet Specialty, Food & Beverage, or adjacent CPG categories.
- Experience calling on headquarters or regional offices and/or managing distributor relationships.
- Strong ability to analyze trends, data, and sales performance metrics.
- Proficiency in creating compelling PowerPoint sales presentations.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Experience working cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners.
- Ability to travel locally or regionally as needed, including time spent in the field.
- Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record, in accordance with company policy.
- Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned customers and distributors, nurturing existing business and driving incremental growth.
- Analyze historical and current purchase order data to project sales, assess profitability, and identify growth opportunities.
- Lead and participate in customer business reviews and market presentations.
- Maintain regular engagement with accounts to ensure customer needs are met or exceeded.
- Execute promotional strategies and programs to drive volume and brand visibility.
- Provide sales forecasts and input for production and demand planning.
- Collaborate with executive leadership on pricing, promotions, quotes, and account strategies.
- Resolve customer issues related to product, service, or sales execution.
- Monitor competitive activity, market trends, and merchandising techniques.
- Manage expenses in alignment with budgeted guidelines.
- Take a proactive, growth-oriented sales approach focused on building and expanding strategic relationships.
- Adhere to company policies, procedures, and ethical standards while representing Inaba professionally.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Opportunity to manage meaningful accounts and influence growth strategy.
- Collaborative, professional environment with a strong brand reputation.
- Growing U.S. business with expanding distribution and increasing market presence.
- Long-term stability and leadership from a well-established Japanese parent company.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
