Key Account Manager: Retail

Location: Central, NJ

Pay Range: $100,000–$115,000 per year

Category: Sales (Exempt)

Overview

We’re representing a global bakery manufacturer with a rapidly expanding U.S. presence in the retail and convenience channel. They’re looking for a Key Account Manager – Retail to oversee strategic relationships with grocery and convenience accounts—think regional chains, national retailers, and category leaders like Wawa and 7-Eleven.

This is a high-visibility role for someone who blends data-driven strategy with hands-on account management. You’ll grow volume, strengthen partnerships, and help shape how the brand shows up on shelves across the Northeast and beyond.

What You’ll Do

Account & Customer Management

• Manage and grow relationships with assigned retail and convenience accounts.

• Lead line reviews, promotional planning, and pricing discussions to maximize sales and margin.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for day-to-day operations, marketing programs, and supply coordination.

• Collaborate with broker and distributor partners to ensure accurate forecasting, availability, and execution in stores.

Sales & Growth

• Develop and deliver business plans, category analyses, and promotional calendars for key accounts.

• Analyze syndicated data, POS reports, and internal metrics to identify opportunities for growth and distribution gains.

• Present business reviews, sales decks, and performance updates to retail partners.

• Manage trade budgets and evaluate ROI on programs and promotions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Marketing, R&D, and Operations to introduce new products tailored for retail shelves.

• Coordinate with Supply Chain and Customer Service to ensure seamless order flow and delivery.

• Support the development of category insights and innovation pipelines based on market trends.

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate account records, forecasts, and pricing structures.

• Track volume performance, promotional lift, and profitability by account.

• Share market intelligence and competitor insights with leadership and marketing teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 5+ years of retail or CPG account management experience (grocery, convenience, or club).

• Proven success managing relationships with regional or national chains.

• Strong analytical skills with experience in Excel, Power BI, or retailer data portals.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.

• Experience managing trade budgets and promotional planning cycles.

• Ability to travel periodically for meetings, trade shows, and account visits.

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

Core Competencies

• Strategic relationship builder with a commercial mindset.

• Confident presenting to customers and internal stakeholders.

• Analytical and data-driven; skilled at turning insights into action.

• Organized, proactive, and comfortable juggling multiple priorities.

• Entrepreneurial approach to growing new categories and customer partnerships.

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 within a growing global organization