Senior Business Manager; Wakefern Team

Senior Business Manager

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for driving business growth and profitability? Join our team as a Senior Business Manager on the Wakefern Team and play a critical role in shaping the future of our company. Recognized by the Management Committee and peers as a key contributor, you will exhibit high proficiency in your responsibilities and drive significant impact.

Responsibilities:

• Sales Strategy & Execution:
  Deliver principal goals in volume, share, and sales fundamentals (Merchandising, Assortment, Pricing, Shelving) for assigned customers at the lowest possible cost.
• Revenue & Budget Management:
  Maximize company revenue through brokerage, commissions, and bonuses while overseeing manufacturer expenditures and operating within budget.
• Customer Business Planning:
  Develop and sell strategic Customer Business Plans. Align cross-functional teams—including Sales, Marketing, Technology, and Retail—to execute in-store presence and business objectives.
• Relationship Management:
  Serve as the primary contact for principal-specific issues. Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, principals, and trade partners. Represent the company professionally in industry forums and committees.
• Business Development & Innovation:
  Identify and pursue new business opportunities. Demonstrate pioneering skills to expand principal portfolios and drive volume growth.
• Trade Marketing Oversight:
  Manage trade-marketing funds in accordance with company and principal policies. Minimize sales-related deductions and ensure financial accountability.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  
  Coordinate communication between General Managers, principals, and Account Managers. Partner with Retail Sales Managers on major initiatives such as product launches and promotional drives.
• Market Intelligence & Competitive Analysis:
  Monitor market pricing and competitive activity. Provide timely feedback and insights to principals and internal teams to refine strategies.
• Technology & Analytics:
  Utilize advanced tools (Excel, PowerPoint, RW3, IRI Analyzer) to develop conceptual presentations and improve business outcomes. Demonstrate strong analytical and Category Management skills.
• Team Development & Leadership:
  Mentor Business Managers, Account Managers, and Retail Selling Organization members. Share learnings and best practices to build organizational capacity.
• Strategic Feedback & Continuous Improvement:
  Provide actionable feedback to General Managers and principals. Proactively manage personal development and stay current on industry trends and initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in the industry required.
• Experience:
  
  Proven track record in sales capacity with a food broker or major national company. Prior experience must demonstrate sales skills and the ability to manage and direct others.
• Skills:
  
  Proficient in a variety of software packages used to support the sales function.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to travel
• Strong listening and visual acuity
• Manual dexterity for technology use
• Sit for extended periods (typically 6+ hours per day)
• Use a computer, including keyboard and mouse, for prolonged periods
• Lift and carry light items (e.g., files, office supplies, laptops, typically 20+ pounds)
• Reach, bend, or stoop occasionally to access files or office materials
• Maintain focus and attention for long periods of desk-based work
• Follow clear directions
• Perform repetitive motions (e.g., typing, clicking) consistently throughout the day

Join us as a Senior Business Manager and lead the charge in driving business growth and profitability.