Brand Development Manager - San Francisco / Bay Area

Job Description

Job Description

The Brand Development Manager (BDM) is responsible for driving brand growth, distribution, and market execution across the San Francisco / Bay Area. This role is highly field-focused and requires a strong balance of sales execution, distributor partnership, and brand-building activity. The BDM will work closely with the State Manager and distributor partners to expand distribution, increase velocity, and build long-term brand presence in a highly competitive market. This position reports to the State Manager, California.

Core Responsibilities and Activities

Distributor & Market Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with distributor partners to drive focus, accountability, and execution in market 
• Conduct regular ride-withs and market work-withs alongside distributor teams 
• Align on priorities, programming, and execution plans with State Manager guidance 

Account Development & Sales Execution

• Identify, target, and secure new placements across on-premise and off-premise accounts 
• Drive menu placements, features, displays, and promotional activity 
• Maintain and grow key account relationships to increase velocity and visibility 

Market Activation

• Execute strategic samplings, events, and activations that support account development and brand growth 
• Identify high-impact local opportunities to increase trial and awareness 

Performance & Reporting

• Track and report weekly activity, account progress, and market insights 
• Utilize internal tools and reporting to provide visibility to State Manager and leadership 

Brand Representation

• Serve as a brand ambassador in market, delivering education to trade, distributor partners, and consumers 
• Support local content aligned with brand standards 

Compliance & Operations

• Ensure all activities comply with company policies and state/local regulations 
• Manage budget and expenses responsibly and in a timely manner

What Does Success Looks Like? 

• Increased distribution and account penetration across the Bay Area 
• Strong alignment and execution with distributor partners 
• Growth in account velocity and repeat business 
• Consistent pipeline of new placements and opportunities 
• Clear, proactive communication with State Manager, RVP and broader team

What Does this Role Require? 

• Dynamic, outgoing personality, and the courage to drive a new brand with the trade and consumers. 
• Strong, competitive spirit, and a passion for building a new, national brand, and being part of a winning team that shares in its success.  
• Frequent moving of product cases, event materials and barware, up to 50 pounds. 
• Regular night and weekend activities typically outside of standard business hours. 

The information listed above is not a comprehensive listing of all day-to-day activity. Similar activities to those listed above may be required from time to time. 

Qualifications:  

• 2–5+ years of experience in beverage alcohol, distributor sales, or related industry 
• Experience working within the three-tier system (California experience strongly preferred) 
• Proven ability to build relationships and drive results in a competitive market 
• Self-starter with strong organizational and time management skills 
• Ability to work flexible hours including nights and weekends 
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Compensation & Benefits
The expected base salary range for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and overall alignment with the role, with eligibility for performance-based incentives. 

The position also includes a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), monthly auto allowance, and flexible paid time off.