Asst. Manager / Manager – Key Accounts (Food Service)

About the role

The Key Accounts Manager will manage and grow key accounts in the Food Service vertical. This role will primarily focus on cultivating and expanding relationships with prominent international food and coffee chains and cafes. The ideal candidate will be responsible for maximizing revenue, driving strategic partnerships, and ensuring customer satisfaction through effective sales strategies and account management

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, including international food and coffee chains and cafes.
• Identify and capitalize on new business opportunities to expand customer accounts and increase market share.
• Act as the primary point of contact for key customers, addressing their needs and concerns in a timely and professional manner.
• Create and implement customized sales strategies tailored to each key account’s business goals and needs.
• Drive new product adoption and upsell opportunities with existing customers.
• Monitor and achieve sales targets and KPIs for assigned accounts, ensuring growth and profitability.
• Stay updated on market trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences within the food service industry.
• Provide regular reports on account performance, opportunities, and challenges to senior management.
• Conduct regular business reviews with customers to identify areas for improvement and further growth.
• Work closely with internal teams (NPD, SNOP, and customer support) to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of products and services.
• Collaborate with NPD team to introduce new products and tailor offerings to meet the needs of key customers.
• Lead negotiations with key accounts to secure long-term contracts, ensuring favorable terms for both parties.
• Ensure compliance with contract terms, pricing agreements, and service level agreements.

Qualifications and Experience

• A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.
• Additional certifications or training in sales, account management, or food service industry will be a plus.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in B2B sales, specifically within the food service or food and beverage industry.
• Proven track record of managing and growing relationships with large, strategic accounts, particularly international food chains, coffee shops, or cafes.
• Strong experience in key account management and sales negotiations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships with senior decision-makers.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to understand customer needs, challenges, and business drivers.
• Highly organized with excellent time management skills and the ability to manage multiple key accounts simultaneously.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and collaborate effectively with internal teams.
• Proficient in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Strong customer-centric approach with a commitment to delivering value and exceeding customer expectations.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented.