Job Description
Responsible for driving Optimeal same-store sales and opening new designated key independent pet accounts across the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast and New England areas through a combination of trade marketing tools, merchandising and developing relationships with store management. Reporting to and working in close collaboration with Country Manager and Brand Manager to grow brand awareness in stores, pet food community and events. We are looking for a high energy person, ready to operate autonomously and show initiative. This position is best suited for someone with existing relationships and relevant experience in the independent pet channel.
Responsibilities:
1. Retailer Education
Responsible for ongoing brand education to retail store staff, incl. educational seminars, "lunch and learns" and other tools to empower staff to promote Optimeal and provide them with relevant incentive packages.
2. Store Merchandising
Regularly visit key independent pet stores to ensure good product placement and help merchandise their Optimeal range with POP kit, frequent buyer awareness, ongoing promotions. Ensure stores place orders with the distributor for any low inventory items. Provide feedback to brand manager on the most effective merchandising and product promotion tools.
3.Store Events and Demos
Schedule and execute store events and demos to educate consumers on the benefits of Optimeal and our ongoing promotional programs. Prepare demo reports
4.New Accounts Opening
Introducing Optimeal to new pet specialty stores by nurturing relationships with store management and sharing our vision for growth
5.Administrative
Complete required reports; schedule, Lunch and Learn activity, demo activity, competitive activity, and retailer requests.
Key Requirements
- University degree with business related major
- 5+ years Pet Specialty sales experience
- Highly energetic, prepared to move fast
- Ability to work during weekends, if required
- Valid driver's license and personal vehicle
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
What We Offer
- Highly competitive base salary and annual bonus for achieving KPIs
- Health insurance (incl. dental and vision) and 401k program
- Highly entrepreneurial, fast paced environment
- Opportunity to grow within the company and assume other responsibilities
- Flexible/remote work environment
- Opportunity to attend trade events and grow within the CPG industry
- Training and education
About Optimeal
Optimeal is a super-premium, European brand of pet food produced by Kormotech - a family-owned company with over 20 years of experience in the pet food industry. Optimeal is manufactured at the company's own facilities, which are comprised of three high-tech plants. Recognized by Petfood Industry magazine among top 50 largest pet food manufacturers in the world in 2023, our branded and private label products are available today in more than 40 countries across the globe. Having launched in the US in 2021 Optimeal is now sold on Amazon, Chewy and across range of independent stores in key areas.