Account Manager

Account Managers perform and/or direct the work performed for customers of varying size and complexity. They provide quality customer service by identifying, analyzing and proposing recommendations for improvements in accounts, promotions, seasonal programs, and recommending improvements to the service delivery approach. Additionally, they are responsible for identifying and resolving issues with accounts and sales team personnel. They assure the innovative use of survey information to support service objectives. They should recommend improvements to a customers account by understanding their needs. Account Managers keep the customer advised of promotions and seasonal trends and resolve issues with management. They should develop strong relationships with the customer's functional and operating management. Account Managers are expected to assure the quality, timeliness and effective completion of assigned areas to meet established service delivery objectives and should be involved in administrative areas such as planning, developing promotional guidelines and monitoring processes. They should review and document work performed on behalf of customers and implement corporate goals and objectives as assigned by a Regional Manager.

Full Service Results

Account Managers should develop a thorough knowledge of new products and promotion capabilities as well as allowances as provided by the customer. Routinely present these to the accounts they are assigned. Pursue opportunities for introducing new promotions to the customer. Seek out and utilize advertising funds available from Regional Managers and provide advice on all changes in the market. Keep a constant communications flow between principals, category managers and territory managers. 

New Business Acquisition

Account Managers should demonstrate a high level of professionalism in personal and professional relationships that enhance DeJarnett's and customer's image. They should develop a network of contacts in their accounts and promote DeJarnett and customer within that network. They maintain a professional working relationship with warehouse buyers, category managers, and suppliers (principals). Account Managers may assist in DSI's marketing activities and contribute new ideas to marketing plans. 

Financial Results and Account Objectives

Account Managers monitor customer service objectives and recommend improved operations to enhance objectives. To do so may require both individual and team efforts to create value that achieves customer satisfaction. They develop basic objectives and marketing plans to maximize the sales potential of all private brand products in their assigned market area. Account Managers effectively follow a service plan to assess and achieve their long term objectives. Pre-planning for seasonal promotions is often the key to their success.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, relevant education and experience will be considered. 
• Minimum Experience: 2-3 yrs of relevant work experience; preferred, sales experience in retail grocery/dairy/frozen/HBC

Specific Job Skills:

• Excellent written, verbal, computer and listening communication skills;
• Resourcefulness in problem-solving;
• Ability to plan and carry out several projects concurrently;
• Strong basic mathematics skills;
• Strong PC skills required in the areas of e-mail, spreadsheet, and word processing. Need to be very proficient in Excel, with the ability to manipulate and or create spreadsheets.

Interpersonal Contacts:

• This position requires ongoing contact with customers, Sales personnel, retailers, merchandising/advertising personnel and product managers. Approximately 60% of contact is by telephone or email, and 40% is face to face.

Primary Functions/Major Responsibilities/ Category and Assigned Products

• Grow sales and distribution of assigned Exclusive Brands (Private Label).
• Accomplish the development, implementation and execution of promotion plans, merchandising programs and pricing strategies.
• Assist with case estimates for upcoming promotions, supplier notification.
• Work the manufacturers to get mixed pallets, display ready pallets & shippers that retail request.
• Understand competitive pricing/retail gap analysis.
• Participate with management in developing:  Spending levels necessary to support sales quotas and achievement of market share objectives;  New distributions, merchandising programs and promotional mix to achieve sales and marketing objectives.

Staff Development

• The Account Manager will be responsible for training and educating Territory Managers on the items and programs under their responsibilities in coordination with the Sales Manager