This job is closed
Applications are no longer available for this announcement. Explore current related opportunities below.
Job description
If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.
Director of Sales- Central U.S.
Carmel, IN, US
30+ days ago Requisition ID: 5033
Heartland Food Products Group
Position Summary
Heartland Food Products Group is seeking an experienced and results-driven Director of Sales to lead our Central U.S. commercial strategy. This role is responsible for driving profitable growth across key national and regional retailers, including Kroger, Meijer, Target, AWG and UNFI while building strong customer partnerships and developing a high-performing sales team.
The ideal candidate is a strategic sales leader with deep retailer relationships, proven people leadership, and strong joint business planning capabilities within the CPG food industry.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Leadership & Strategy
Own and execute the sales strategy for the West and Central U.S. regions to deliver revenue, volume, and profitability targets
Develop and lead joint business plans (JBPs) with key retail partners, aligning customer objectives with Heartland's growth strategies
Drive distribution, assortment, pricing, promotion, and shelf execution initiatives across assigned customers
Key Account Management
Serve as the senior commercial contact for major retailers including Kroger, Meijer and Target
Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with buyers, category managers, and retail leadership
Lead annual planning, line reviews, innovation launches, and promotional negotiations
Lead, coach, and develop a team of sales professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular performance reviews, and support professional development
Partner cross-functionally with Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, and Category Management
Strategic & Analytical Excellence
Leverage data and insights to inform decisions, optimize trade spend, and improve ROI
Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and customer performance to identify growth opportunities
Ensure accurate forecasting and effective demand planning in collaboration with internal teams
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field
10+ years of progressive sales experience in the CPG food industry
Proven success managing key grocery retailers, with direct experience with Kroger, Meijer and Target strongly preferred
Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing sales teams
Strong strategic thinking, negotiation, and joint business planning capabilities
Preferred
MBA or advanced degree
Experience leading multi-region or national accounts
Familiarity with private label and/or branded food categories
Strategic & commercial acumen
Customer relationship management
People leadership and talent development
Cross-functional collaboration
Executive-level communication and influence
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Worksite address
carmel, IN, 46033, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.