What are the responsibilities and job description for the Area Manager position at Gunnar's Bourbon?
Area Manager:
The Area Manager for the state of Kansas at Gunnar’s Bourbon will be directly responsible for the execution of sale initiatives, managing and training a team of sales representatives and/or brand ambassadors, driving brand awareness, and monitoring market conditions. Execution of company goals will be done by building strong relationships with key accounts, distributors, and retailers within the territory while ensuring the compliance with all industry regulations and company policies.
Job Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute strategic sales plans to achieve sales goals and market share objectives for assigned territory.
- Lead and motivate a team of sales representatives, providing coaching, performance feedback, and training to maximize individual and team performance. Set individual sales targets for team members and monitor progress against goals.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, including bars, restaurants, liquor stores, and distributors within the designated territory.
- Prospecting of new accounts for both on and off premise.
- Work with Distributor Representatives in the market, introduce new brands, and grow current brand awareness.
- Conduct regular customer visits, presentations, and tastings to promote brand awareness and drive sales.
- Understanding of the company's brands, including product features, benefits, and target market positioning.
- Execute marketing initiatives and promotional campaigns to support brand positioning and sales objectives.
- Monitor competitor activity and identify opportunities to strengthen market share.
- Analyze sales data and market trends to identify growth opportunities and areas for improvement.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree plus sales management experience within the alcohol beverage industry
- Strong understanding of the liquor distribution landscape, including on-premise and off-premise channels
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with customers and distributors
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM systems
- Analytical skills to interpret sales data and make informed decisions
- Ability to work independently and is a self-starter.
- Excellent negotiation and presentation skills
- Effective organizational and time management skills.
Physical Requirements:
- Lifting and carrying: this role may involve lifting and carrying product samples, promotional materials, or demonstration equipment up to 50 lbs.
- Driving: a significant amount of time will be spent driving, so sitting for long periods, navigating through traffic, and handling the physical demands of operating a vehicle are required.
- Standing and walking: working in retail or conducting field sales requires spending a significant amount of time on your feet; this could include standing for long periods or walking for extended periods throughout the day.