Key Account Manager: Food Service

Location: Central, NJ

Pay Range: $100,000–$115,000 per year

Category: Sales (Exempt)

Overview

We’re representing a global bakery manufacturer with an entrepreneurial U.S. team that’s expanding its food service presence. They’re looking for a Key Account Manager to manage and grow relationships with restaurants, cruise lines, hotels, QSRs, and distributors across the country.

If you’ve got a strong commercial mindset, know the ins and outs of the foodservice industry, and can use data to drive results, this role offers serious opportunity for impact and growth.

What You’ll Do

Account & Customer Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for key foodservice accounts and distributors

• Manage product samples through Salesforce, follow up on kitchen testing, and gather feedback

• Provide accurate product knowledge, pricing, and availability information

• Partner with field sales to identify new menu applications and product placement opportunities

Sales & Growth

• Develop and execute strategies to expand sales within existing accounts

• Prepare and deliver sales decks and Excel-based reports for customer presentations

• Support menu recommendations, case studies, and operator-specific solutions

• Analyze product portfolio to optimize mix, improve costs, and increase profitability

• Consistently meet or exceed sales goals

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support

• Work closely with distributor partners (Sysco, US Foods, Gordon, regional) to ensure fulfillment and engagement

• Collaborate with Culinary, R&D, and Marketing on product demos, tastings, and promotional campaigns

• Represent the brand at trade shows, distributor events, and customer visits

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate records of customer activity and opportunities in Salesforce

• Track sample-to-order conversion and report on sales performance

• Ensure pricing accuracy, rebate compliance, and contract terms are properly implemented

• Share market insights with Marketing and R&D to inform innovation efforts

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or Hospitality (or equivalent experience)

• 3–5 years of account management or sales experience in Foodservice or CPG

• Strong understanding of distributor networks and operator dynamics

• Proficiency in Excel (analysis, formulas) and PowerPoint (sales presentations)

• Experience with Salesforce preferred

• Exceptional organization, follow-through, and communication skills

• Ability to travel periodically for shows, customer visits, and meetings

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Core Competencies

• Customer-first relationship management

• Analytical and data-driven approach to sales

• Commercially savvy and detail-oriented

• Creative problem solver with a menu-driven mindset

• Adaptable, proactive, and results-focused

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 in a global growth environment