Retail Sales Manager
Sales Manager – Retail Growth & Distribution
We are seeking a driven Retail Sales Manager to accelerate retail expansion, grow distribution channels, and strengthen relationships with major retail partners. This position combines hands-on direct selling with oversight of broker-supported accounts to deliver on revenue goals and execute brand strategies across our portfolio. Tremendous opportunity for upward advancement within organization.
Responsibilities
Retailer & Account Oversight Act as the main liaison for key retail accounts, handling them directly while collaborating closely with retail brokers on others. Cultivate and nurture solid, long-term relationships with both retailers and brokers to fuel ongoing sales increases. Facilitate productive meetings with retailers and brokers to evaluate results, discuss distribution progress, pricing strategies, and future expansion potential. Guide line reviews, facilitate new item onboarding, and contribute to category assortment decisions. Oversee budgets allocated to retailer programs, promotions, and sales initiatives. Sales Planning & Implementation Create and roll out targeted sales strategies that align with overall company revenue ambitions. Spot and capitalize on opportunities to broaden distribution and refine product assortments for maximum impact. Work in tandem with brokers to drive effective in-market execution where they manage accounts. Provide sales-side support for launching new products, ensuring smooth retail rollout. New Business Acquisition Proactively scout, target, and win new retail partnerships to increase brand availability. Prepare and deliver compelling sales pitches and lead negotiations with potential retail partners. Land new accounts through direct outreach or by leveraging broker networks and introductions. Assist with seamless onboarding and initial execution for newly acquired retailers. Analysis, Reporting & Teamwork Review and interpret sales data, identifying trends and insights across accounts and brands. Develop clear recaps, forward-looking forecasts, and performance reports. Partner cross-functionally with internal departments to address retailer requirements and ensure strong execution.
Desired Skills and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a similar discipline (preferred). 5+ years of hands-on experience in retail sales or account management, ideally within CPG or similar industry. Proven background managing both direct retail relationships and accounts supported through brokers. Excellent skills in negotiation, verbal/written communication, and data analysis. Solid command of Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint for presentations and reporting. Work Setup Primarily office-based position (3 days per week onsite). Some travel required for in-person retailer meetings, line reviews, and key events.
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ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
Start with your Short List
Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
Practice Areas
Our practice areas are led by highly experienced executive recruiters who take great care in fully understanding client requirements and candidate qualifications.
• Accounting and Finance
• Information Technology
• Operations
• Engineering
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• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Legal
• Construction
• Supply Chain
• Consumer Package Goods (CPG)
Founded on long-standing relationships and hundreds of successful placements throughout the Twin Cities business community, SkyWater Search Partners is a proven resource for clients and candidates looking to quickly and confidently explore their “short list” of best choices. Count on us to find the best people – and the best fit.
