Director, Customer Development Retail - Central

About the Role

Delicato Family Vineyards is seeking a Director of Customer Development for the Retail sector, based remotely in Cincinnati, OH, Chicago, IL, or Minneapolis, MN. This pivotal role involves leading Regional and Customer Development Managers across all retail accounts within the division. The Director will be responsible for spearheading strategic sales initiatives, managing account planning and budgeting, and ensuring the achievement of performance and business objectives. This position is designated as Exempt.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct departmental activities, ensuring team performance aligns with company goals.
• Champion and embody the company culture, holding oneself and the team accountable for constructive behavior and actions.
• Establish and implement clear operational and individual objectives to foster employee development, achieve productivity targets, and fulfill the company's strategic plan.
• Conduct research on best practices, stay informed about industry trends, and monitor regulatory changes to ensure compliance and enhance operational efficiency.
• Manage departmental financial objectives by developing budgets, controlling expenditures, analyzing variances, and implementing corrective actions.
• Achieve departmental results to ensure the effective execution of the strategic plan.
• Determine staffing needs, and recruit, motivate, and retain a skilled workforce capable of meeting goals.
• Promote and maintain a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
• Prepare departmental staff for success in a dynamic and evolving business landscape.
• Cultivate a work environment that encourages creative thinking, flexibility, and innovation.
• Address employee concerns and complaints objectively and confidentially, involving HR and management as appropriate.
• Ensure consistent adherence to company policies, initiatives, and decisions.
• Coach and develop direct reports, actively participating in performance management processes, providing feedback, and documenting performance.
• Lead the planning, forecasting, and budgeting processes for Regional and/or National Customer Development Managers.
• Develop and execute strategic initiatives across various retail chains to boost sales and brand visibility, collaborating with retail partners on tailored programs.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams for the seamless execution of marketing, promotional, and operational activities.
• Analyze market trends, customer data, and competitive activities to identify effective sales strategies for revenue and profit growth.
• Maintain transparent communication with sales teams and management regarding program performance, distribution changes, and forecasting.
• Ensure flawless in-store and wholesale execution by aligning trade strategies with customer-specific plans.
• Guarantee that all business operations comply with legal and regulatory requirements, minimizing risk and upholding ethical standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) or equivalent education and experience.
• 7-10 years of experience in the wine industry, a related field, or consumer packaged goods, with preferred experience managing distributor/wholesaler relationships.
• 5-7 years of leadership or management experience.
• A valid driver's license, auto insurance, and a reliable vehicle with an acceptable driving record are required.
• Exceptional communication skills, including active listening and the ability to adapt messaging for diverse audiences and business needs.
• Demonstrated ability to advocate for sales strategies and priorities to drive results.
• Commitment to continuous personal and professional development, learning from challenges and setbacks.
• Expertise in anticipating and resolving complex issues using a systems-thinking approach, fostering a culture of innovative problem-solving.
• Proficiency in managing emotions and recognizing biases to guide behavior and relationships, enhancing collaboration and understanding.
• Ability to foster a supportive and accountable culture by modeling constructive behavior and discouraging negativity.
• Skill in setting ambitious yet realistic goals, celebrating achievements, encouraging collaboration, and making inclusive, transparent decisions.
• Proficiency in developing and evaluating strategic options, considering long-term risks and benefits, and adapting plans for success.
• Mastery in leading change with trust and vision, aligning work with goals, and balancing resources.
• Ability to use emotional intelligence to address resistance and support successful transitions.

Perks

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, with significant company contribution towards employee and dependent costs.
• Additional health benefits such as life insurance, disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts.
• 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
• Discretionary profit sharing.
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
• Discounts on wine and merchandise.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Gym discounts.

Eligibility

This role is open to candidates located in Cincinnati, OH, Chicago, IL, or Minneapolis, MN. Applicants should possess a minimum of 7-10 years of experience in the wine or consumer packaged goods industry, with 5-7 years in a leadership capacity. Experience managing distributor/wholesaler relationships is preferred.

Education Required

Undergraduate degree (BA/BS) or equivalent education and/or experience.

Skills

• Sales Strategy
• Customer Relationship Management
• Team Leadership
• Budget Management
• Market Analysis
• Strategic Planning
• Retail Sales
• Performance Management
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Business Development
• Negotiation