Retail Coverage Specialist

Primary Function: This position is responsible for covering the sales, ordering, merchandising and promotion of products distributed by Z.T. Distribution, Inc. at customer locations where there is a void. Generally, this role provides coverage for a Zone Sales Representative when they are out on PTO or off of work for any reason or amount of time. Flexibility, relationship building and exceptional customer service is critical to the position’s success.

The Retail Coverage Specialist is expected to provide his/her own cell phone and will be provided with a company vehicle. This position is in a career path of upward mobility with the next position being a leadership role.

• Cover a sales route for Zone Sales Reps while they are on PTO or for any other pre-determined reason
• While covering routes, sells in products and displays with the focus to grow sales and relationships while maintaining service levels at each location
• When not covering a sales route, the primary focus is to utilize promotions to secure display space and to build impactful displays, along with visiting stores and providing recaps and feedback to the Sales Representative and Sales Manager
• Sets up merchandise displays and stocks/rotates/maintains shelves at customer locations
• Writes orders for customers to ensure products are available and credits/returns are minimal, and focuses on increasing revenue in the assigned territory
• Anticipates needs for and follows through on planned product promotions
• Understands customer needs and patterns to minimize damage and ‘unsaleable’ for the purpose of avoiding dollar loss
• Assists in expediting products or orders to customers in urgent situations
• Develops and maintains good customer relations and communication to ensure customer satisfaction and develop sales opportunities. Checks in with store decision makers with every visit and introduces new/existing products to increase sales and enhance service
• Participates in scheduled Merchandising & Sales meetings at corporate office or virtually via Microsoft Teams
• Records instructions from customers and shares with Zone Sales Representative upon their return
• Informs Sales Manager of any customer problems or complaints and works to effectively solve them
• Efficiently completes work and assigned routes as assigned
• When delivering product(s), obtain proof of delivery in the form of a DSD, or other designated proof of delivery (depending on the retailer), along with a (legible) signature from a store representative.