Regional Sales Manager, South

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

 

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.

 

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

 

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Regional Sales Manager, South 

Job Status: Full-time, Permanent

Work location: remote, USA

Travel: 40%-60%

 

Your Role

In the role of Regional Sales Manager (foodservice/out of home), you will be responsible for initiating, developing, and maintaining significant, sustainable, and profitable business relationships with national/regional chain accounts and distributors within the South region. As a Regional Sales Manager, you will lead the execution of Lipton’s go-to-market strategy to deliver growth targets and business results.

 

Your key responsibilities:

• Manage National/Regional Chain accounts and develop sales opportunities for each customer. 
• Manage a national broker partner within the South Region through regular training, trade shows and market visits to deliver key KPIs.
• Cultivate relationships with critical tier 2 and 3 distributors to gain incremental volume through training & collaboration with their sales teams and executing marketing programs. 
• Grow existing customer base and penetration across all foodservice segments, understanding their needs and offering compelling solutions to help grow their business while managing margins and trade spend.
• Develop a deep understanding of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions brands, portfolio and equipment offerings that best meet customer needs.
• Develop and execute Joint Business Plans (JBP) with select trade partners, including trade term agreements, sell out activities, and DSR engagement.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams as needed to implement supply agreements and forecasts.
• Document activity, including sales, follow-up, and planning as directed in tools provided ex: TELUS, SAP, internal tools

 

Stakeholder Management and key interfaces

• National broker partner
• Cross-functional partners in R&D, Marketing, Supply Chain and Finance
• Regional Sales & Distribution team
• External customers

 

Skills and experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree OR 6+ years of experience in the foodservice industry
• Must reside in the South Region
• Deep understanding of foodservice operations and route to market (Distribution, GPOs/other contracted business, Chains, etc.)
• Experience of successful negotiation in complex customer environments, with strong analytical and scenario planning skills to support negotiations.
• Experience in sales and customer management of branded and non-branded products
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and conduct professional and compelling presentations in person and virtually
• Possess strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong understanding of the impact on sales and profit decisions.
• Organized and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously while consistently advancing the sales process.
• Strong collaboration and influencing skills are required. Must possess a superior capability in cultivating relationships and managing internal and external stakeholders.
• Must be proficient