Washington State Manager

Schilling Cider•Seattle, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Schilling Cider is seeking a high-performing Washington State Manager to lead their sales team in Washington, with a primary focus on the greater Seattle area. This role is responsible for achieving annual sales goals as the #1 Cider company in Washington and executing sales strategies in key off-premise and on-premise accounts. The manager will focus on growing Schilling's presence, volume, revenue, and distribution by building strong relationships with distributor partners and educating stakeholders on the Schilling Cider portfolio. The ideal candidate is passionate about cider, motivated, and eager to grow within a rapidly expanding industry.

Requirements

Minimum 5+ years of beverage alcohol sales experience, preferably within beer, cider, wine, spirits, or non-alcoholic beverage categories.
Minimum 2+ years of direct people leadership and team management experience.
Proven experience working with beverage distributors, including distributor management, programming, and execution.
Strong understanding of chain retail, independent retail, and on-premise sales channels.
Demonstrated ability to analyze sales data, identify opportunities, and execute against sales goals.
Experience conducting market work, ride-alongs, and field coaching with sales teams.
Must be 21+ years of age.
Currently reside in or commuting distance to the Greater Seattle Area.
Passion for cider and the beverage industry.
Valid Driver’s License, good driving record, and a reliable automobile.
Comfort with mobile technology and MS suite.
Ability to occasionally work nights and weekends.
Lead by example and take initiative; be outgoing and approachable.
Be self-driven and self-motivated.
Work independently and as part of the team.
Be an energetic, organized, and motivated problem solver.
Exemplify the company’s values while representing our brands.
Ask for help when needed.

Nice To Haves

Possess a true entrepreneurial spirit.
Are passionate about craft cider and have deep knowledge of the local craft market.
Willing to travel multiple times per year.
Has a desire to create a long-term career path within Schilling Cider.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute the Schilling sales plan to grow the Washington market.
Build and execute Weekly, Monthly, Quarterly Plans with the PNW Regional Sales Director to achieve annual market goals.
Provide daily support to the Schilling Sales team.
Develop and maintain strategic relationships with key distributor partners and retailers.
Increase distribution while educating retailers, restaurateurs, and consumers on the Schilling Cider portfolio.
Call on existing account base to gain new distribution, execute promotional activity, and increase market share.
Develop new business to increase volume/distribution/share within Washington.
Identify retail opportunities and sell/execute against those opportunities.
Ensure proper merchandising of product and point-of-sale materials according to brand standards.
Manage inventory, development, and communication.
Lead regular team meetings and work with team members in the trade for support and assistance.
Coordinate events and promotions to deliver greater brand awareness and stimulate sales.
Execute monthly Chain Account opportunities, including closing authorization gaps, gaining displays, merchandising shelves/backstock, POS support, and implementing company programming.
Maintain clear and effective communication with distributor partners regarding retail opportunities and authorizations.
Provide essential feedback to the Chain Account and Marketing teams about retail successes and challenges.
Accomplish sales goals in alignment with the CIDER Selling Process.
Coordinate and conduct General Sales Meetings with all wholesaler channel teams.
Compile and submit reports on assigned area and general market information to the management team and wholesaler.
Keep business calendar up to date and scheduled 60 days out.
Conduct regularly scheduled meetings with Distributor Brand Managers and Sales leaders.
Utilize sales tools (KARMA, VIP, Nielsen, IRI, etc.) effectively.
Provide monthly recaps to distributors including goal tracking, inventory, sales review, and upcoming activity.
Communicate chain activity, new item launches, and incentive opportunities.
Pivot various aspects of distributor management based on business needs.
Maintain responsible budget practices for the assigned territory.
Coordinate with wholesalers on commitment closure opportunities.