Business Development Manager - AWG

Who We Are

At C.A. Carlin, we take brands to new heights. We are one of the leading privately held sales agencies in the industry. Thanks to nimble growth and associations with our operating partners, C.A. Fortune and C.A. Ferolie, we have built brand value that is unlike any other in the CPG industry.

What We Do

Since our start in 1962, we have built industry relationships on the foundation of trust and action. We turn information into insight. We convert insight into programs. We drive programs that consistently deliver results to our clients, on their timeline.

We have more than 300 associates and multiple offices throughout the country. We represent top brands in many categories such as confection, snack, grocery, beverage, frozen, dairy etc. 

Overview of the Role

• The Business Development Manager - AWG (Confections) is a strategic role responsible for aligning client goals with retail customer objectives at Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) to create a winning sales strategy for all stakeholders. This individual will be integral to developing, building, and maintaining credible, long-term relationships with both our confections clients and key retail partners.
• Location: Remote but must be local to Kansas City, MO to attend in-person meetings at AWG HQ
• Salary: $75,000 - $95,000 based on experience, qualifications and skills.
• Travel Requirements:30-40% - Regional travel, client sales meetings; regional tradeshows 
• Experience calling on AWG HQ is required
• At C.A. we’re not looking for perfection, just people that want to commit to a us and grow their careers long-term. We are on a mission to build better brands that inspire healthier lifestyles for consumers and their families. If you’re looking for a sign to apply, here it is!

What You’ll Do at C.A. Carlin

• Portfolio Management: Take direct ownership of the growth and management of our C.A. confection client portfolio at AWG. 
• Headquarter Engagement: Manage all headquarter calls and relationships with AWG category managers and key decision-makers. 
• Strategic Influence: Drive product distribution and assortment decisions at both the HQ level and within downstream retailers. Collaborate with the C.A. account manager team to maximize client distribution, influence everyday POG (Plan-o-gram), front-end display strategies, promotional events, and seasonal business. 
• Planning & Execution: Implement annual business plans and key promotional events with AWG HQ, ensuring seamless communication to downstream retailer account manager teams. 
• Relationship Management: Oversee the management of the Alliance Retail Group relationship. 
• Event Participation: Manage and attend all required AWG Trade Shows and relevant industry events. 
• Financial Oversight: Work closely with the C.A. trade and deduction management teams to ensure client trade goals are met annually. 
• Data Analysis: Regularly analyze business trends using syndicated data and retailer-specific insights. 
• Growth Initiative: Play a key role in securing new business for the agency and pitching potential brand partnership opportunities to the executive leadership team. 

What You Should Bring to the Table

• Must have 3 - 5 years sales calling directly on AWG HQ, Alliance Retail Group, and key downstream retailer groups
• 3 - 5 years of confection sales experience
• Experience working collaboratively with an account manager team to maximize distribution opportunities 
• Sound understanding of how to work effectively with Alliance Retail Group
• Deep understanding of the food and beverage distribution network, the retail landscape, and current marketplace trends
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities; able to turn strategy into effective execution 
• Forward-looking, proactive problem solver who consistently strives for results 
• Highly resourceful team player who can also operate effectively independently
• Extremely organized and detail-oriented with expert-level written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to achieve high performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment 
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong, effective relationships with clients, customers, and colleagues 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Adobe Acrobat

You Will Stand Out If You Have

• 5+ years of extensive experience working closely with AWG HQ, including strong connectivity with category managers and leadership, providing a best-in-class go-to-market strategy for clients. 
• 3-5 years of experience working for or with a food & beverage broker/sales agency, preferably in the confection category. 

Perks

• 16 days of PTO
• Car allowance
• 11 paid company holidays per year
• 2 paid volunteer days per year
• Bonus eligible
• 3 months fully paid parental leave (regardless of gender)
• Medical, dental, and vision
• Paid company life insurance
• 401k with company match
• Summer hours (half day Fridays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day)
• Work from home flexibility

Come As You Are

C.A. is committed to making our company more inclusive. Diversity fuels our innovation and better connects us to our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. Based on research, we know that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply to roles only when their experience perfectly matches the job description. That said, we encourage you to apply if you meet the majority of qualifications, especially if this role aligns with your career trajectory.