Experienced Customer Account Manager – Strategic Business Development and Customer Relationship Management for blithequark

Introduction to blithequark

At blithequark, we are a leading independent bottler dedicated to selling, marketing, manufacturing, and distributing a wide range of products from renowned companies. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as a 2023 US Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. We pride ourselves on our ability to execute, corporate culture, and governance/financial performance, making us an ideal place to grow your career.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Customer Account Manager to join our team in Orlando, FL. As a Customer Account Manager at blithequark, you will play a crucial role in identifying and maximizing opportunities with our customers, including blithequark. You will develop and successfully sell customer business plans and promotional plans that align with and support the customer's and blithequark's business objectives and strategies. Your goal will be to maximize profitable sales opportunities by thoroughly understanding the complexities of the channel or customer's business and building enduring relationships penetrating multiple levels within the customer's organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a customized yearly business plan addressing the critical needs of the customer while delivering blithequark's budgeted profit and volume.
• Collaborate with customers and/or channels to develop a yearly price/package plan that generates desired results for both the customer/channel and blithequark.
• Work with internal business partners, including PGM, Marketing, and Finance, to develop programming that accelerates incremental business and exceeds program objectives.
• Conduct post-promotional analysis to measure the success levels of promotions and make necessary changes to the price/package plan.
• Sell-in and implement local, regional, or national marketing strategies.
• Act as a subject matter expert on assigned customers and/or channels, communicating weekly with frontline sales management to discuss promotional plans, display commitments, and establish goals against assigned metrics.
• Collaborate with Category Management to gain key market and customer insights and turn insights into specific actions that positively influence the customer's buying patterns.
• Negotiate contracts for new business and renegotiate contracts for existing business.
• Manage customer/channel forecasts to ensure alignment with business trends while mitigating the risk of product supply issues.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• 5+ years of experience in the consumer goods industry.
• Previous experience managing multiple key accounts.
• Experience working with Nielsen and other syndicated data.
• Experience in developing successful annual business plans and price/package plans for retail customers.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Strong knowledge of consumer goods and the beverage industry.
• Customer-focused approach.
• Bilingual skills are preferred.
• Experience influencing effective negotiation and selling with retailers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong communication skills, including listening, speaking, writing, and inquiring.
• Previous experience within category management is highly desired.
• Strong negotiation, collaboration, and analytical skills.
• Experience in Food Service on Premise (FSOP), Direct Store Delivery (DSD), and/or Beverage category management is preferred.

Career Growth and Learning Benefits

At blithequark, we are committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Customer Account Manager, you will have access to training and development programs, mentorship, and opportunities to take on new challenges and responsibilities. You will be part of a dynamic team that values innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Our company culture is built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and respect. We believe in fostering a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages open communication, teamwork, and employee engagement. At blithequark, you will be part of a team that is passionate about delivering exceptional results and making a difference in the lives of our customers and communities.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package, including a salary, comprehensive benefits, and a range of perks. Our Total Rewards Program includes:

• Total Wellness Programs, including health, dental, and vision plans.
• 401K program with a healthy company match.
• Supplemental Life Insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation pay and 11 company-paid holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and results-driven professional looking for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply for the Customer Account Manager position at blithequark. As a key member of our team, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on our business and contribute to our continued success. Join us and be part of a dynamic and innovative company that is shaping the future of the beverage industry.