Sales Manager

Role Overview

• Lead and oversee the weekly base ad planning process for all divisions, selecting core items that drive value, margin, and member competitiveness.
• Negotiate with vendors to secure promotional funding, TPRs, EDLCs, and ad specific discounts to support print and digital advertising.
• Ensure ad mixes align with category strategies, seasonal needs, consumer trends, and member expectations.
• Partner with internal teams to ensure timely item setup, price accuracy, and execution readiness.
• Build strong relationships with vendor partners to support long term promotional planning.
• Drive collaborative conversations to secure competitive trade support for ad programs.
• Represent AIM in top to top vendor meetings focused on ad planning, investment growth, and strategic alignment.
• Establish clear sales goals, workflow expectations, and performance measures.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Work closely with Category Management, Procurement, Merchandising, Retail Marketing, and division teams to ensure ad plans are executable and aligned with business needs.
• Provide analysis on item performance, vendor funding trends, and member needs.
• Attend and represent AWG at industry conferences, AWG food shows, and division meetings.
• Deliver presentations to internal teams, member retailers, and external vendor partners.
• Communicate AIM strategies and promotional opportunities with professional presence and confidence.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, Sales, or related field—or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience in ad planning, category management, vendor relations, promotions, or CPG/retail/wholesale merchandising.
• Demonstrated success negotiating with CPG manufacturers or retail/wholesale partners.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence across levels.
• Ability to travel (15-20%).
• Experience in wholesale grocery, retail grocery, or cooperative business environments.
• Strong knowledge of promotional planning, TPR/EDLC structures, and vendor trade programs.
• Familiarity with syndicated data, category management tools, and retail pricing systems.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• Paid Vacation, Holiday, and Sick Time
• 401(k) with 4% match along with 3 other contributions
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Basic & Supplemental Life and AD&D
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Wellness Program
• Yearly Holiday Bonus