District Manager, Small Format

Job Description

Johnson Brothers is a leading family‑owned distributor of wine, spirits, and beer, delivering exceptional service since 1953. We proudly represent the world’s top beverage brands and are committed to excellence, innovation, and growth. We offer exciting opportunities in a variety of areas. Join our passionate team and help shape the future of the beverage industry!

The ideal candidate has extensive experience selling into on‑ and off‑premise accounts and will lead a team of Sales Consultants and Merchandisers in their designated region.

• Manage team to ensure successful execution and service to independent accounts.
• Market work should consist of 80 % of the week; managers should spend approximately one day per week in the office, the remaining time in the market with Retail Specialists and Merchandisers.
• Complete all new‑hire paperwork and onboarding, including training Retail Specialists and Merchandisers on Netsuite and internal operations.
• Train and develop Retail Specialists in the field weekly (or more often upon hiring) to provide on‑the‑job sales training.
• Route market Merchandisers daily to ensure efficient deliveries and merchandising based on market needs.
• Provide monthly sales goals to Retail Specialists. Managers must keep Retail Specialists up‑to‑date on progress and help them achieve the goals.
• Address any account issues/complaints to find an equitable resolution and restore the relationship.
• Review account sales data frequently to identify trends and reassign under‑performing accounts as necessary.
• Enter orders, maintain accounts, and assist with retail deliveries for Retail Specialists when they are unable to.
• Merchandise accounts/deliver orders as needed.
• Complete formal performance reviews for all Retail Specialists bi‑annually (more often if necessary).
• Ensure full compliance on chain schematics, planners, and planograms.
• Work with Operations Teams to ensure efficient route schedules based on chain receiving times.
• Create and foster an open and positive work/team environment. Address any and all concerns of Retail Specialists in a professional and timely manner.
• Review sales orders and pricing to ensure correct pricing and margins are being maintained.
• Ensure execution on new brand depletions.
• Manage execution on retail placements and approved items sell‑through.
• Liaison between Chain Account Managers and Retail Specialist team.
• Recruiting for new talent (this includes creating sales routes, reviewing resumes and conducting interviews).

• Must be able to travel within established geographic areas as necessary.
• Must have reliable transportation, hold a valid driver’s license, and meet company driving record & automobile insurance requirements.
• Must have a steadfast work ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, and resilience.
• Must be proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong understanding of cost/pricing methodology.
• Must have the ability to manage individuals to exceed goals and perform to defined metrics.
• Act in a professional manner at all times (dress appropriately, speak and write professionally).
• Respond to all manager/partner emails, phone calls, and information requests in a timely manner.
• Accounts receivable collection management.
• Lift and carry a 40‑plus‑pound case of wine.
• Work flexible hours which include early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends. Willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Strong written, verbal, analytical and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to organize and prioritize workload to meet deadlines.
• Must be self‑motivated and able to work alone as well as within a team structure.
• Goal‑oriented, focused, and assertive individual who needs little direction or supervision.
• Proven track record of strong sales in previous/current work experience.
• Excellent communication skills and interpersonal talents which will enhance existing customer and key retailer relationships.
• Adheres to the company’s equal opportunity and non‑discrimination policies, ensuring no discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, sex, creed, national origin, socioeconomic status, disability, age or any other protected class.
• Attendance is an essential job requirement defined as having regular, consistent, reliable, punctual and predictable attendance, including the ability to work regular hours and shifts, before and after hours, and on weekends when required.
• Must complete and pass a criminal background check.
• The Company requires the downloading and use of the Trip Log app if an employee receives mileage allowance.

Johnson Brothers is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fair treatment and hiring based on qualifications. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.