Market Manager (Southern California)

We're seeking a driven Market Manager in Southern CA. to grow our wine portfolio across a high-potential territory. You'll strengthen relationships with distributors and key accounts, execute trade programs, lead tastings and brand education, and drive visibility and sales across on- and off-premise channels. MUST HAVE WINE INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE.

If you thrive in fast-paced markets, love storytelling through wine, and know how to turn insights into growth, this role is for you.

Position Summary:

The Market Manager is responsible for driving sales growth, expanding brand distribution, and managing distributor relationships across assigned U.S. markets. This role requires strong execution against sales objectives, consistent market presence, and effective collaboration with distributor partners and key trade accounts. The Market Manager will support priority brand development, demonstrate pricing and market awareness, and proactively create sales opportunities aligned with the company's portfolio strategy.

Critical Tasks:

Sales Execution & Market Development (70%)

*Achieve monthly and annual sales, depletion, and distribution goals in assigned markets.
*Work closely with distributor sales teams and key accounts to grow brand visibility, placements, and velocity.
*Secure new distribution in targeted on-premise and fine wine retail accounts.
*Identify and develop opportunities for new, emerging, or underrepresented brands within the portfolio.
*Build and maintain strong relationships with key accounts and decision-makers.
*Maintain consistent market activity and regular communication with distributor teams.
*Plan and support supplier visits with clear objectives, preparation, and follow-up.

Distributor Engagement (20%)

*Lead distributor meetings, trainings, and ride-withs to communicate brand priorities, pricing, and programming.
*Partner with the Division Manager to evaluate distributor performance and execution.
*Ensure timely, accurate, and effective execution of promotions and trade marketing initiatives.
*Collaborate with internal teams to support successful brand launches and long-term brand growth.
*Serve as a portfolio advocate by driving education, awareness, and strategic placements.

Administration & Reporting (10%)

*Provide timely and accurate updates on market activity, performance, and opportunities.
*Use company systems and tools to track progress, sales activity, and market conditions.
*Monitor pricing, inventory, and market dynamics that may impact brand performance.
*Communicate clearly, professionally, and responsively with internal and external partners.

Confidentiality & Professional Discretion (10%)

*Handle sensitive information with the highest level of confidentiality and professionalism.
*Maintain discretion in all communications, documentation, and system access.
*Operate with sound judgment while adhering strictly to defined instructions and boundaries.

Professional Requirements:

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent professional experience. Minimum of 4 – 6 years in an operational, executive support, or administrative role requiring high attention to detail and system proficiency.

Skills: Exceptional organizational and execution skills. Strong attention to detail and consistent follow-through. Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities independently. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Consistent inventory monitoring and proactive issue resolution. Effective preparation and execution of supplier visits and market initiatives. Contribution to portfolio expansion through new brand introductions and distribution gains. High level of reliability, discretion, and professionalism. Maintain alignment between distributor execution and company priorities.

Knowledge: Strong PC skills, including Windows, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Accountability, organization, and a proactive approach to the business. Ability to manage data, reports, and documentation with precision.

Physical: Ability to sit at a computer for 6+ hours per day. Ability to work a flexible schedule as needed based on business demands.

Other: Wine industry experience is a MUST. Italian or French language skills a plus.

Job category: Sales and Marketing