Wine & Spirits Sales Representative
This position requires relevant wine and spirits industry experience in Minnesota.
Position Description
We are seeking a dynamic and motivated individual to join our team as a Wine and Spirits Sales Representative. In this role you will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with accounts such as retailers, restaurants, bars and hotels and driving sales of our diverse portfolio of wines and spirits. The ideal candidate is passionate about the wine and spirits industry, possesses excellent sales and communication skills and thrives in a fast-paced, target-driven environment.
Required Qualifications
- At least 2 years of relevant wine and spirits industry experience in Minnesota.
- Comprehensive understanding of wine and spirits including regions/varietals, product/food pairing techniques, basic production, cocktail builds and beverage service.
- Proven track record of meeting and exceeding sales goals within the hospitality industry.
- Possess a dependable vehicle, valid driver’s license, proof of state registration and insurance and an acceptable driving record.
- Exceptional communication skills.
- Must be able to lift and carry 45+ pounds on a repetitive basis.
- 21+ years of age.
Preferred Qualifications
- Proven and well-established existing account relationships in Minnesota.
- Wine and/or spirits accreditations such as the Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET, or Guild of Sommeliers.
- Goal oriented, focused and assertive, needing little direction or supervision.
- Thrive on creating and selling innovative ideas and demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit.
- Multi-cultural exposure, foreign language or travel experience.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to calculate discounts, programming.
- Computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word and web applications including Google Drive, Dropbox, Seven-Fifty and Provi.
Responsibilities
Sales Responsibilities:
- Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities – establish and nurture relationships with key decision-makers in restaurants, bars, hotels and retail stores to promote and sell our wines and spirits.
- Conduct product presentations, tastings and demonstrations to showcase our portfolio and educate clients on the quality and features of our offerings.
- Collaborate with customers to develop tailored beverage programs and menus that align with their needs and enhance their profitability.
- Meet or exceed sales targets, actively tracking progress and implementing strategies to achieve and exceed sales goals.
Account Management:
- Review customers’ credit status, collect monies owed and partner with the Customer Service Department to ensure accounts remain in good standing.
- Available for ride-with with sales management and work-with for suppliers.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned on-premise accounts, building strong and enduring partnerships.
- Regularly visit accounts to maintain relationships, assess product placement and availability and identify opportunities for growth.
- Provide exceptional customer service, respond promptly to inquiries, resolve issues and address any customer concerns or feedback.
- Conduct regular reviews of account performance, analyzing sales data and market trends to identify areas for improvement and capitalize on
- opportunities.
- Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing and logistics, to ensure seamless order processing, timely deliveries and effective promotions.
Product Knowledge and Training:
- Develop and maintain a deep understanding of our wine and spirits portfolio, including flavor profiles, production methods and industry trends.
- Stay updated on market trends, competitor activities and emerging customer preferences to inform sales strategies and enhance customer engagement.
- Conduct training sessions and tastings for customers and their staff, educating them about our products and assisting them in maximizing sales opportunities.
Reporting and Analysis:
- Provide regular reports on sales activities, account performance, market trends and competitive landscape to management.
- Utilize CRM tools and other systems to track customer interactions, sales data and manage account information efficiently.
Salary Information
Base salary depends on experience, plus commission exceeding the industry average.
Range: Approximately $45,000.00 – $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Employee discount
Health insurance
Health savings account
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan