Sales Manager - Food Packaging Machinery

Middleby Packaging Solutions LLC•Elgin, IL

9d•$110,000 - $130,000

About The Position

The Sales Manager is responsible for driving revenue growth and expanding market share for Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) equipment throughout the United States. The role develops strategic customer relationships, identifies new business opportunities, manages key accounts, and leads the sales process from prospecting through project implementation. The ideal candidate has extensive experience selling capital equipment into food processing and packaging industries, with an understanding of MAP technology, vertical bagging systems, and integrated packaging line solutions. The position manages a national territory with significant travel requirements and works with customers and internal engineering and applications teams to develop packaging solutions. Compensation is $110,000–$130,000 in base pay, depending on experience, plus commissions. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) with company match; paid vacation and holidays; expense reimbursement; and professional development opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Packaging Technology, Marketing, or a related field; equivalent experience is considered.
At least 5 years of successful capital equipment sales experience in packaging, processing, or industrial automation.
Proven track record of achieving and exceeding sales targets.
Strong understanding of food manufacturing and packaging operations.
Excellent presentation, negotiation, and communication skills.
Experience managing long-cycle, consultative sales processes.
Ability to travel 50–70% nationally.

Nice To Haves

Experience selling VFFS baggers, MAP packaging systems, weighers, conveyors, or integrated packaging lines.
Knowledge of gas flushing technology, shelf-life extension, and food packaging regulations.
Existing relationships within produce, snack, frozen food, bakery, protein, or fresh-cut food industries.
Experience working with distributors and OEM sales channels.
Proficiency with CRM systems such as Salesforce, HubSpot, or Microsoft Dynamics.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a national sales strategy to achieve annual revenue and profitability objectives.
Identify and pursue opportunities with food processors, produce packers, snack food manufacturers, frozen food companies, protein processors, and related industries.
Generate new business through direct sales, distributor networks, industry contacts, trade shows, and targeted marketing initiatives.
Manage the full sales cycle, from lead generation through contract negotiation and order closure.
Maintain an active sales pipeline and provide accurate forecasts.
Build and maintain relationships with executive leadership, plant managers, engineering teams, operations managers, and purchasing professionals.
Conduct product demonstrations, plant audits, and packaging evaluations.
Understand customer production requirements and recommend appropriate MAP vertical bagging solutions.
Serve as the primary contact for strategic national accounts.
Collaborate with engineering and applications teams to develop customized packaging solutions.
Present ROI analyses, throughput calculations, labor savings, and package quality improvements.
Develop proposals, quotations, and technical specifications.
Support equipment installations and startup activities when necessary.
Monitor industry trends, competitive activity, emerging packaging technologies, and customer needs.
Identify opportunities for new products, enhancements, and market expansion.
Represent the company at industry trade shows, conferences, and customer events.
Develop relationships with packaging material suppliers, automation integrators, and industry influencers.
Manage a national territory, prioritize opportunities, and allocate resources to maximize sales effectiveness.
Maintain CRM records, activity reports, and forecast accuracy.