Regional Manager - Central Division

About the Role The Regional Manager – Central Division is responsible for leading sales growth, distributor execution, market development, and team performance across one of Craft & Art's most important territories. Reporting directly to the President, this individual will own business results across a geographically diverse region spanning Texas through the Upper Midwest. The ideal candidate is a commercially minded leader with deep distributor relationships, strong industry credibility, and a proven ability to accelerate depletion growth, expand distribution, and drive execution across multiple markets simultaneously. This role requires equal parts strategic thinking and field execution. The successful candidate will be comfortable presenting to distributor executives, working alongside sales representatives in the market, managing direct reports, and collaborating with supplier partners to deliver sustainable growth. Territory The Central Division includes: Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Minnesota, and surrounding markets. Brand Portfolio The Regional Manager will represent and champion Craft & Art's growing portfolio, including: Glendalough Whiskey & Gin Key Responsibilities Sales Leadership & Business Development Own and deliver annual volume, depletion, distribution, and revenue objectives across the Central Division Develop and execute strategic business plans tailored to individual market dynamics and opportunities Identify and secure new distribution, menu placements, display opportunities, feature activity, and account growth Analyze sales performance, depletion trends, and market data to develop actionable growth strategies Lead annual planning, forecasting, budgeting, and business review processes Serve as the primary strategic contact for key distributor partners including Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, Breakthru Beverage, Johnson Brothers, Reyes Beverage Group, and other regional wholesalers Conduct distributor business reviews, planning sessions, forecasting meetings, and performance evaluations Lead regular market visits, ride‑withs, and sales blitzes to ensure execution excellence Build strong relationships across distributor leadership, management, and field sales teams Hold distributor partners accountable to agreed‑upon KPIs, programming, and growth objectives Key Account Development Leverage existing relationships and develop new partnerships with key regional retailers and on-premise operators Secure impactful placements, programming opportunities, displays, and promotional support across both on- and off-premise channels Partner with National Account teams to ensure flawless local execution of chain account initiatives Develop relationships with influential buyers, operators, and decision-makers throughout the region Directly manage and develop Market Managers within the Central Division Provide coaching, mentorship, accountability, and professional development support Establish clear objectives and performance expectations Foster a culture of ownership, execution, collaboration, and continuous improvement Align field priorities, market activities, and resource allocation with company objectives Supplier & Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner closely with supplier stakeholders, internal leadership, National Accounts, Marketing, Operations, and Finance teams Support new product launches, pricing initiatives, promotional programming, and portfolio strategy Provide market intelligence including competitive activity, pricing trends, distributor feedback, and consumer insights Represent Craft & Art professionally at industry events, distributor meetings, and supplier engagements Qualifications & Compensation 7+ years of progressive experience in beverage alcohol sales, supplier management, distributor management, or commercial leadership Demonstrated success managing multi-state territories and delivering consistent sales growth Deep existing relationships within the Central U.S. distributor network Proven track record driving depletion growth, distribution expansion, and executional excellence Experience leading, coaching, and developing direct reports Strong understanding of the three-tier beverage alcohol system Exceptional relationship-building, negotiation, and communication skills Strong analytical capabilities with the ability to convert data into actionable business plans Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and CRM/sales reporting tools Willingness and ability to travel extensively throughout the region (approximately 40–60%) Must be based in Chicago, IL Must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and reliable transportation Competitive base salary commensurate with experience Annual performance-based bonus opportunity Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement savings plan Paid time off and company holidays Professional development and growth opportunities Why Join Craft & Art This is an opportunity to help shape the future of a rapidly growing national beverage company while working with an exceptional portfolio of premium brands. You'll have direct access to executive leadership, significant influence over regional strategy, and the ability to make a meaningful impact on the growth trajectory of both our brands and organization. If you are an entrepreneurial sales leader who thrives on building brands, developing teams, and winning in the marketplace, we'd love to hear from you. Equal Opportunity Employer Craft & Art Wine & Spirits is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and celebrated. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr Craft & Art Wine and Spirits