Sales Director

The Sales Director is responsible for directing, managing and coordinating the sales of bakery products and services within the assigned branch. This position leads the sales team in executing company sales strategies and serves as a key resource to customers by effectively communicating the organization's complete product and service offering. The Sales Director will work closely with branch management, marketing, operations and sales teams to drive revenue, profitability and market share while developing strong customer relationships and a high-performing sales organization. Key Responsibilities General Management Work with branch management to develop and execute the branch business plan, including budgets, sales targets, strategies and action plans. Execute company sales plans through the sales organization. Lead the implementation of new and existing products at the branch level in partnership with General Management, Regional Sales Management and Sales Associates. Manage branch retail and wholesale pricing strategies to optimize profitability and market share across all product lines. Determine staffing requirements and oversee territory planning and territory realignment as needed. Monitor sales performance and recommend corrective actions where required. Sales Planning and Business Development Work with Marketing leadership to establish sales goals that support market share growth and profitability across manufactured and resale products. Identify commercial opportunities and provide information to support the development of new Industrial division projects. Work with R&D and other internal teams on new product opportunities, including commercial opportunities, target selling prices, financial analysis, investment requirements, expected returns, ongoing programs and competitive analysis. Follow up on new product development projects and ensure effective communication and execution within the sales organization. Implement company-directed sales programs and initiatives. Identify opportunities to grow sales, expand market share and strengthen customer relationships. Achieve sales and financial budgets in line with branch expectations. Monitor sales performance, profitability and market share against budget. Evaluate sales and financial performance against industry and economic trends. Ensure pricing and sales strategies support appropriate profit margins. Customer Management Maintain strong relationships and regular contact with key customers. Understand customer needs and identify opportunities to provide additional products and services. Respond promptly and professionally to customer questions, concerns and requests. Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction across the assigned territory. Build strong relationships with both internal and external customers. Leadership and Team Management Provide overall leadership, direction, coordination and evaluation of the sales team. Create a positive, collaborative and performance-driven team environment. Interview, hire, train and develop sales employees as required. Plan, assign and direct work across the sales organization. Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and feedback. Address employee concerns, complaints and performance issues effectively. Review individual salesperson performance and develop corrective action plans where necessary. Ensure sales personnel maintain the knowledge and skills required to achieve company objectives. Develop high-potential employees and future leaders within the sales organization. Work with Human Resources to develop and implement sales training and education programs. Support succession planning and the development of future departmental leaders. Adhere to all company policies, procedures and safety requirements. Qualifications Bachelor's degree preferred. 5-7 years of relevant sales, business development or management experience, or an equivalent combination of education, experience and training. Bakery industry experience is required. Experience managing and developing a sales team. Experience managing sales budgets, pricing and profitability. Strong understanding of sales strategy, territory management and market development. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to build and maintain relationships with key customers. Strong organizational and planning skills. Ability to work effectively with senior leadership and cross-functional teams. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, spreadsheets, word processing and other business software. Valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications Experience in bakery manufacturing, bakery distribution, foodservice or food ingredients. Experience selling to industrial bakery customers. Experience selling manufactured and resale food products. Participation in relevant food or bakery industry associations. Skills and Competencies The successful candidate will demonstrate: Strong leadership and team-building skills. Excellent sales and business development capabilities. Strong commercial and financial understanding. Analytical and data-driven decision-making. Excellent negotiation and communication skills. Effective problem-solving abilities. High level of professionalism and integrity. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and responsibilities. Commitment to teamwork and organizational success. Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively with customers, employees, management and other stakeholders. This position is primarily based in an office environment with frequent travel and regular interaction with customers, sales personnel, warehouses and manufacturing facilities. The role may require occasional time in warehouse and manufacturing environments and exposure to operating machinery and equipment. #J-18808-Ljbffr