Key Account Manager: Retail
Location: Central, NJ
Pay Range: $100,000–$115,000 per year
Category: Sales (Exempt)
Overview
We’re representing a global bakery manufacturer with a rapidly expanding U.S. presence in the retail and convenience channel. They’re looking for a Key Account Manager – Retail to oversee strategic relationships with grocery and convenience accounts—think regional chains, national retailers, and category leaders like Wawa and 7-Eleven.
This is a high-visibility role for someone who blends data-driven strategy with hands-on account management. You’ll grow volume, strengthen partnerships, and help shape how the brand shows up on shelves across the Northeast and beyond.
What You’ll Do
Account & Customer Management
Manage and grow relationships with assigned retail and convenience accounts.
Lead line reviews, promotional planning, and pricing discussions to maximize sales and margin.
Serve as the primary point of contact for day-to-day operations, marketing programs, and supply coordination.
Collaborate with broker and distributor partners to ensure accurate forecasting, availability, and execution in stores.
Sales & Growth
Develop and deliver business plans, category analyses, and promotional calendars for key accounts.
Analyze syndicated data, POS reports, and internal metrics to identify opportunities for growth and distribution gains.
Present business reviews, sales decks, and performance updates to retail partners.
Manage trade budgets and evaluate ROI on programs and promotions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Marketing, R&D, and Operations to introduce new products tailored for retail shelves.
Coordinate with Supply Chain and Customer Service to ensure seamless order flow and delivery.
Support the development of category insights and innovation pipelines based on market trends.
Reporting & Administration
Maintain accurate account records, forecasts, and pricing structures.
Track volume performance, promotional lift, and profitability by account.
Share market intelligence and competitor insights with leadership and marketing teams.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent experience).
5+ years of retail or CPG account management experience (grocery, convenience, or club).
Proven success managing relationships with regional or national chains.
Strong analytical skills with experience in Excel, Power BI, or retailer data portals.
Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
Experience managing trade budgets and promotional planning cycles.
Ability to travel periodically for meetings, trade shows, and account visits.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Core Competencies
Strategic relationship builder with a commercial mindset.
Confident presenting to customers and internal stakeholders.
Analytical and data-driven; skilled at turning insights into action.
Organized, proactive, and comfortable juggling multiple priorities.
Entrepreneurial approach to growing new categories and customer partnerships.
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary: $100,000–$115,000 (DOE)
Comprehensive benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(k), FSA, PTO
Development and advancement opportunities within a growing global organization