Customer Development Manager, Kroger

Join the Fresh Revolution with F&S Fresh Foods!

Headquartered in Vineland, NJ, F&S Fresh Foods is leading the way in fresh-cut fruit, vegetables, and meal solutions distribution. With the recent acquisition of five additional state-of-the-art facilities strategically located across the U.S., we now deliver to customers within an impressive 5,700-mile radius—every single day!

For over 40 years, we’ve been redefining production and safety processes, building strong partnerships, and creating endless possibilities for our diverse customers—from restaurants and supermarket prepared food operations to convenience store chains and beyond. At F&S, we are fueling families with nutrition, innovation, and convenience, turning meals into memorable moments. By combining cutting-edge technology, deep-rooted customer relationships, and operational excellence, we are shaping the future of fresh—from farm to family.

We’re not just about food; we’re about people. Recognized as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years, our team of 2,100 full-time employees drives our culture forward by living our values every day.

If you’re ready to be part of a company that values innovation, excellence, and community impact, join us as we embrace our next exciting chapter of growth. Together, we’re planting the seeds of progress and nourishing a fresh, healthy future for everyone!

Be the Driving Force Behind Our Sales Momentum!

Are you ready to take the lead in a dynamic, fast-paced, and highly creative environment? We're looking for a self-motivated, strategic thinker with exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills to bridge the gap between sales, customers, and corporate headquarters. You will be focused on the Kroger account and be located close to their headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. If you're a proven sales professional who thrives on customer engagement and innovative problem-solving, this role is for you!

Your Impact: As the key link between sales and our corporate teams in Marketing, R&D, and Finance, you’ll play a pivotal role in driving growth. From trade show planning and execution to providing top-tier support for strategic customer sell-in, you’ll be the go-to expert who ensures our momentum never slows. This is a hands-on position where you'll challenge the status quo, manage internal and external relationships, and apply business acumen to deeply understand our customers' needs. You’ll work closely with Sales VPs, National and Regional Sales Managers, brokers, and other stakeholders to develop impactful plans and ensure sales success.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to directly influence sales performance, build customer relationships, and drive growth through innovative strategies and collaboration. This position is ideal for a dynamic, detail-oriented professional ready to make a meaningful impact on sales performance and customer relationships.

Join us and become the force that propels our sales and customer relationships to the next level. If you’re ready to make a real difference and grow alongside a team that values innovation and excellence, we want to hear from you!

What You’ll Do:

• Collaborate Across Teams: Work cross-functionally with Marketing, R&D, Finance, and Operations to create timely, impactful sales materials and strategies.
• Lead Customer Engagement: Build and manage strong relationships with top customers through direct interactions and strategic support.
• Empower the Sales Team: Develop tools, strategies, and resources to maximize selling time and effectiveness.
• Drive Innovation & Efficiency: Streamline sales communications and enhance planning processes for seamless execution.
• Champion Trade Shows: Plan, execute, and support key trade shows to drive customer engagement and sales momentum.
• Strategize for Growth: Develop sales strategies, track KPIs, and act as a critical link between sales and corporate teams to accelerate growth and market share.
• Manage Sales Communications: Serve as the primary conduit for all sales-related communications across internal teams.
• Oversee Pricing & Materials: Manage price lists with Finance, develop sell sheets with Marketing and agencies, and ensure all sales materials are up-to-date and effective.
• Create & Deploy Playbooks: Develop sales playbooks and ensure successful deployment across teams.
• Track Objectives & Revenue: Monitor sales objectives and revenue targets through regular tracking and meeting management.
• Support Account Planning: Facilitate account planning processes and provide tools for effective execution.
• Bid & Negotiation Support: Prepare pre-packaged bid information and assist with negotiations as needed.
• Expand Opportunities: Collaborate with the Business Development team to identify and develop white-space accounts.
• Plan In-Store Activations: Strategically plan in-store activations, including POS materials, displays, and pusher trays.
• Engage Cross-Functional Teams: Play an active role in cross-functional initiatives with Marketing, R&D, PMO, and Operational teams to drive sales success and innovation.

What You Bring:

• Proven Sales Expertise: A successful track record in sales with a talent for building and maintaining strong customer relationships with Kroger.
• Creative Problem-Solving: A self-starter with innovative thinking and the drive to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or Economics.
• 5+ years of experience in sales communications and tracking, preferably with a consumer-packaged goods manufacturer, broker, or consulting/market research provider. 5+ years of experience in Retail/Club Channels.
• Exceptional Organization and Adaptability: Strong ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines with focus and efficiency.
• Customer Engagement Mastery: Expertise in engaging with customers and supporting sales teams to achieve impactful results. Experience developing strong relationships with business partners and team members, with a proactive approach to providing updates and progress reports.
• Analytical Mindset: Ability to analyze large volumes of data, synthesize insights, and deliver actionable recommendations for the business. Expert-level presentation skills and the ability to deliver clear, impactful insights.
• Strong Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, ensuring key stakeholders stay informed and aligned.
• Understanding of Sales Needs: Deep knowledge of sales force requirements, customer pain points, and the retail landscape.
• Proficiency in Tools & Tech: Familiarity with syndicated services like Nielsen/IRI scanner data, advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (especially PowerPoint), and knowledge of Google Suite (a plus).
• A passion for innovation and a drive to challenge norms to deliver measurable success.

Our Values:

As we continue to grow and provide leading edge products to our customers, we understand hiring the right people and treating them well is critical to our success. Everything we do starts with our values. These are the beliefs that we share and that strengthen our team. Our values shape our thoughts and actions every day. At F&S its Always FRESH and Always FUN!

Find the most positive path.

Respond swiftly, accurately, and nimbly.

Earn trust by sharing, helping, and keeping promises.

Serve up safety.

Have each other’s backs.

F&S Offers:

We are proud to provide a comprehensive benefits program focused on your total well-being.

• Competitive compensation package
• A robust health and welfare benefits package that includes Life, Health, Dental, Vision
• The opportunity to plan for the future with a strong 401(K) including company match!
• Time to recharge with Paid Time Off annually + Paid Holidays
• Career Advancement opportunities and Tuition Assistance to help you achieve your goals and continue your career growth.

F&S is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Join us in shaping the future of F&S Fresh Foods!