Sales Manager, Department Stores & Strategic Accounts

TRUDON, the renowned luxury candlemaker from France, is seeking a Sales Manager, Department Stores & Strategic Accounts to join our North American team. The Sales Manager, Department Stores & Strategic Accounts will be responsible for defining and driving the commercial strategy across a portfolio of strategic channels — department stores and specialty retail, corporate and hospitality gifting, online pure players, and LATAM distribution — for both TRUDON and Carrière Frères. Reporting directly to the Head of Sales, Americas, this is a high-ownership role that requires both strategic thinking and hands‑on execution: understanding the key brand and distribution mechanisms within each assigned channel, building strong retail and distributor partnerships, and ensuring flawless implementation in the field. Acting as a senior brand representative, the Sales Manager will work alongside the Head of Sales, Americas to shape and execute the North American commercial strategy while driving revenue performance across all channels. Founded in 1643, TRUDON is the oldest continuously operating candlemaker in the world and was formerly the official supplier to the French royal court. Known for exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality products, TRUDON produces artisanal candles, diffusers, fine fragrances, and body care that are cherished for their captivating scents and exquisite designs. We are committed to preserving the art of candle making while expanding our global presence. Key Responsibilities Define and drive the commercial strategy across all assigned channels — department stores and specialty retail, corporate and hospitality gifting, online pure players, and LATAM — in close partnership with the Head of Sales, Americas. Set channel priorities, develop go‑to‑market plans, and build the business case and P&L for each channel. Own the account‑level commercial relationship across all channels: serve as the primary point of contact for retail buyers, gifting partners, online pure players, and LATAM distributors; conduct compelling sales presentations, lead line reviews, negotiate assortments and terms, and drive sell‑in and sell‑through performance. Lead all commercial activities including market reviews, completing and managing line sheets, order writing, product launches, and assortment planning; monitor and actively manage chargebacks to resolution; maintain accurate account‑level P&Ls to track profitability and inform channel strategy. Analyze account and channel performance, market trends, and competitive activity; maintain CRM reporting, pipeline management, and sales forecasting to inform decision‑making and support commercial objectives. Manage LATAM distributor relationships across all business units: define pricing structures, build seasonal launch plans, coordinate sanitary registration processes, and support capex program pilots to ensure successful brand establishment and growth across priority LATAM markets. Oversee in‑store execution across department store and specialty retail doors, including regular store visits, visual merchandising, re‑merchandising, and coordination of in‑store activations and animation weeks; ensure brand standards are upheld at all points of sale. Recruit, onboard, schedule, and manage a retail freelance salesforce — including brand ambassadors and fragrance consultants — deployed across key US department store and specialty retail doors to drive sampling, in‑store sales, and brand visibility. Deliver compelling brand and product training to retail staff, freelance teams, distributor partners, and gifting clients; ensure all points of contact are equipped to represent the brands with accuracy and enthusiasm. Travel is expected to be approximately 50%, domestically and internationally, to support account management, market visits, LATAM distributor meetings, trainings, and key industry events. From time to time and at its absolute discretion, TRUDON may require you to perform any other reasonable duties which are commensurate with your job title in order to meet its business needs. What We’re Looking For 5+ years of experience in account management or sales, with a demonstrable track record across luxury, beauty, or premium lifestyle; experience in retail, gifting, or LATAM distribution is preferred. Strong relationship‑building and communication skills; comfortable managing senior‑level client relationships across diverse channels and geographies. Knowledge of the US department store and specialty retail landscape; experience working with accounts such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, or Bloomingdale’s is a plus. Strong analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to leverage performance and market data to inform strategic decisions; highly self‑motivated, process‑oriented, and comfortable working independently within a lean organization. Passion for luxury and preserving our brands’ heritage. Experience in corporate or hospitality gifting and/or online pure players is a plus. Experience working with LATAM distributors — including pricing structures, sanitary registration, launch planning, and capex programs — is a plus across all business units. Spanish language proficiency is a plus, given LATAM distributor relationships. French language proficiency is also a plus, but not required, given close collaboration with our France‑based teams. Ability to travel as needed; valid driver’s license required. What We Offer Generous paid time‑off package and company holidays. 401(k) plan with 5% employer match, available from your first month. Yearly performance‑based bonus. Employee discount program and discount on TRUDON‑branded products. Opportunities for growth within a fast‑growing luxury brand. Salary Range: $95,000 - $105,000 base salary, with eligibility for a 15% annual performance‑based bonus. Job Location: New York, NY. This role is a hybrid position that requires a minimum of 3 days per week in‑office at our downtown Manhattan location. TRUDON is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of our clients and community. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and/or any other characteristics protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr