What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sales Strategy Manager position at The Sterling Choice?
Sales Strategy Manager
Position Summary
The Sales Planning Manager serves as the key link between headquarters and field sales, driving the execution of channel sales and marketing initiatives. This role collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including brand marketing, trade marketing, operations, category management, finance, and retail partners, to align business strategies and support field sales teams.
Operating in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to a growing business while shaping strategy and execution. The Sales Planning Manager reports to the Director of Sales Planning & Strategy, US.
Key Responsibilities
- Sales Planning & Strategy: Assist in the Annual Sales Planning Process, supporting the development, communication, and execution of cross-functional sales materials.
- Data Analysis & Insights: Analyze key sales metrics (distribution, shelving, merchandising, and pricing) to identify trends and growth opportunities.
- Customer Growth & Support: Work with cross-functional teams and field sales to drive profitable growth with existing and new customers.
- Category & Trade Management: Leverage trade and category management expertise to assess risks and opportunities in the US market.
- Sales Execution & Coordination:
- Develop category priorities and execution tactics.
- Conduct weekly and bi-weekly customer team connect calls
- Lead monthly/quarterly sales updates for the US Sales Team and Leadership.
- Support the new item commercialization process by providing sales execution expertise.
- Business Tracking & Reporting: Maintain and develop key business trackers for innovation, category reviews, display forecasting, and special packs.
- Sales Tools & Resources Management:
- Maintain sales materials and tools, including sell decks, spec sheets, and product images.
- Manage retail tools such as IRCs, POS materials, and corrugate displays.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with marketing and category management to develop customer-focused category and new item sell stories.
- Foster a Positive Work Culture: Keep the work atmosphere engaging, collaborative, and dynamic.
Qualifications & Experience
- Education: BA or BS
- Experience: Minimum 5 years in a CPG/Retail environment, with a solid understanding of trade and category management principles.
Skills & Abilities
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills—comfortable collaborating with multiple teams.
- High-energy, adaptable, and self-motivated—thrives in a fast-paced environment.
- Independent problem solver with strong judgment and decision-making skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines with attention to detail.
- Team-oriented, positive attitude, and proactive mindset.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.).
