K-12 Sales Specialist (Food Broker)

K-12 Specialist (Food Broker)
 

Affinity Group is seeking a K-12 Sales Specialist to make their mark in our Ohio market. This position will report to the Director of K-12 Sales.

Who we're looking for:  

You'll be responsible for sales development for an assigned K-12 market. Activity includes, but is not limited to prospecting, lead generation, managing the sales pipeline, and influencing decision-makers to improve K-12 nutrition. To be set up to win, K-12 Specialists should have demonstrated success in outside business development, consultative selling, and/or account relationship management. This position will unleash their proven skills in relationship selling and are not apprehensive about courageously asking for the business to produce outcomes.
 
Who We Are: 

Great Place to Work Certified | Your Bridge to Success | Why Our People Love Affinity Group 

Affinity Group is one of the fastest-growing food sales and marketing agencies, with a national presence throughout North America and Canada. We represent some of the most recognizable and well-regarded food brands in the industry.  
 
Supported by the corporate sales support team, you’ll be part of a team that drives brand awareness and increases market demand for our clients. Affinity Group brings decades of expertise and a consultative system that is tailored for a localized approach. 

A typical week might include the following:

• Consistently identify and implement event/activity plans for assigned accounts.
• Build awareness of the client's unique value proposition by presenting features and benefits of the product lines.
• Drive inquiry generation through strategic sales presentations and partnerships.
• Influence high-impact partnerships in the market while executing daily tasks like virtual presentations, calls, and emails to maximize value and increase cases shipped.
• Use a consultative approach to deliver exceptional sales presentations for K-12 foodservice directors, school board members, charter organizations, food service associates, and community advocacy groups.
• Work from a combination of a local office and remote locations, aiming to meet ambitious sales targets.
• Independently support prospective clients through the entire sales cycle, leveraging CRM systems and ensuring data integrity.
• Use critical thinking to guide prospects towards a successful purchasing experience.

• 3-5 years of foodservice brokerage or foodservice distribution sales experience. 
• K-12 Education experience, or K-12 Foodservice experience
• Operations or culinary experience is a plus. 
• Bachelor’s degree is a plus. 
• Outstanding time management. Ability to manage competing priorities.  
• Self-motivation and drive to succeed.  
• Effective communication and listening skills.  
• High emotional intelligence and ability to build strong partner relationships. 
• A valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and a flexible schedule. This role requires daily travel throughout your territory. Some industry events may require overnights during the food trade show season. 
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Sales Management Systems. 

• The typical work week: Monday through Friday 
• During the food trade show season, the position requires the ability to stand for extended periods, with the ability to safely lift case goods up to 50 lbs.
• Travel: Position requires daily motor vehicle travel to assigned locations, with travel needs averaging around 60%, including occasional overnight stays.

• Health & Wellness: Medical, vision, and dental insurance plans 
• Company life insurance, supplemental insurance, and short/long term benefits 
• 401(k) Retirement plan 
• Paid Time Off & Company Holidays 

The Affinity Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.