Sales Representative

About the Company

Founded in 1876, Sapporo is the first beer of Japan, number one selling Asian beer brand in the U.S., and has grown to become a leading player in the global beer market. With a world-class brewing facility in Richmond, VA, Sapporo USA manages the production, marketing, and distribution of Sapporo's beers nationally. Sapporo’s vision is to “connect worlds” through a shared enjoyment of beer and community.

We take pride in a rich history following our passion and are in search of people who are committed to help build our legacy for the future.

This role, internally titled as Market Execution Specialist
, executes Sapporo’s priorities directly in the market, focusing on merchandising excellence, display execution, resets, and targeted account activation. This role supports key retail initiatives across all channels as directed, ensures programs are executed with precision, and provides real‑time market feedback to leadership. Market Execution Specialists are deployed where execution is critical, acting as an agile extension of the broader sales and distributor teams.

Applicants must reside in DC / Maryland.

• Execute merchandising excellence within off‑premise chain accounts, including management of cold box, shelf placement, and overall product visibility.
• Ensure compliance with shelf price across all assigned accounts.
• Execute chain programming strategies through effective displays, samplings, and placements such as sushi counter displays.
• Deliver strong merchandising excellence within on‑premise chain accounts, including POS, tap handles, and +1 placements.
• Spend 80‑90% of the time focused on getting out in the market, approximately 50 retail account visits a week.
• Maintain consistent menu presence and optimize brand visibility within accounts.
• Execute activations and promotional programs to drive engagement and sales.
• Support independent Sushi Tier 1 on‑premise accounts (e.g., PICOS).
• Drive +1 opportunities to secure new POD within existing accounts.
• Drive executive of Asian Import strategy through off‑premise chain displays while maintaining brand standards.
• Develop and secure new POD in independent on‑and off‑premise accounts.
• Build and maintain strong account relationships to drive long‑term growth.
• Support and identify local market growth opportunities.
• Support zone initiatives and priorities, including crew drives, events, and activation programs.
• Provide timely, actionable market feedback and insights to the leadership team to help inform strategy and decision‑making.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• 1‑3 years of related sales experience within the food or beverage industry, preferably in alcohol beverage sales and working within the three‑tier system.
• Ability to manage complex sales, sales programs, and portfolios of initiatives through excellent influence and customer‑service skills.
• Effective and persuasive communicator with outstanding presence, presentation, and negotiation skills that constantly strive for simplicity and clarity.
• Solid execution skills with a passion for getting into the details where appropriate to make effective decisions and drive results.
• Cicerone Certified Beer Server certificate is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Flexibility to travel as needed, including weekends where necessary to drive sales and connect with customers.
• Regular travel required to retail accounts. Must have a clean Motor Vehicle Record, valid Driver’s License, and reliable transportation with vehicle insurance in good standing.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Applicants must reside in DC / Maryland.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance, 401(k), and Bonuses for Eligible Team Members.
• Company beer perks program and discounts.
• Paid Time Off – including accrued vacation, Sick Leave, and 12 paid Holidays.
• Benefit programs supporting Financial Wellness, Health & Wellness, and Career Development.

Sapporo USA is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, citizenship status, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression of an otherwise qualified individual, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. Sapporo USA hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications for the job to be filled.

Sapporo USA seeks to build a culturally diverse staff where differences are valued and respected. Women, minorities, individuals with various abilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ and intersectional individuals are encouraged to apply.