National Account Manager - Food Service

National Account Manager - Food Service (Processed Foods) Summary

Indiana Packers Corporation (IPC) is seeking a highly motivated National Account Manager to join our dynamic team in the food service industry, specifically focusing on processed protein products. This role is pivotal in driving sales growth, maintaining key client relationships, and expanding market presence within the food service sector. The selected individual will have the ability to build and develop new relationships, while maintaining and growing existing clients.

We are seeking proven experience to hit the ground running.

Client Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key national accounts within the food service industry.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all business-related inquiries and negotiations.
• Develop a deep understanding of client needs and objectives to effectively propose solutions that align with both parties' interests.
• Work with all client stakeholders to ensure total satisfaction: sourcing, procurement, culinary, Product development, operations and distribution.

Sales Strategy and Execution:

• Develop and implement strategic sales plans to achieve sales targets and expand market share.
• Identify growth opportunities within existing accounts and pursue new business opportunities.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements that meet company objectives while ensuring customer satisfaction.

Market Analysis and Insights:

• Monitor industry trends, market developments, and competitor activities to identify opportunities and risks.
• Utilize market insights to drive decision-making and strategic planning.
• Analyze sales data and performance metrics to assess progress and make data-driven recommendations.

Collaboration and Cross-functional Leadership:

• Collaborate closely with internal teams such as marketing, product development, and supply chain to support account growth and customer satisfaction.
• Lead cross-functional teams in developing and executing strategies that align with customer needs and company goals.

Forecasting and Budget Management:

• Prepare accurate sales forecasts and budgets based on thorough analysis and market trends.
• Monitor and manage budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost-effectiveness.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Ag Economics or related field preferred. High School diploma will be considered with additional years of experience.
• 5 + years of experience and a proven track record of success in national account management within the processed protein food service industry (pork preferred).
• Experience calling on national or regional restaurant chains.
• Must have experience in the processed protein industry, with pork experience strongly preferred. Looking for candidates who have represented a product line that is part of a menu item that is prepared/cooked.
• Must have a vast understanding of and hands‑on experience working within the food service industry, including established relationships and experience working with brokers, suppliers, and distributors.
• Experience with buying, strategic sourcing/RFP, culinary/R&D, and restaurant operations personnel.
• Track record of building relationships with new customers.
• Must be located near hub airport.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence key stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in analyzing sales data and market trends.
• Ability to travel as required (approximately 50%).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Please note, this job description is not designated to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

Indiana Packers Corporation (IPC) is a fully integrated retail, food service and private label supplier of fresh and processed meats based in Delphi, Indiana. Since the start of operations in 1991, we have experienced rapid growth from a single pork processing company into a multi‑plant diversified producer of fresh and processed meats, with locations throughout America's Heartland and revenues of approximately $1.5B.

We are best known for our national brand Kentucky Legend (the best‑selling boneless ham brand in the United States) as well as several well‑known regional brands, including Indiana Kitchen, Fischer's, Field,…