Job OverviewThe Sr Customer Manager is a key member of the Freshpet Canada sales team, responsible for leading and executing strategic customer plans across major retailers including (but not limited to) LCL and Walmart. This role manages distributor relationships, drives sales growth, and ensures Freshpet's brand objectives are achieved in the Canadian market. The ideal candidate works independently and proactively, leveraging deep CPG experience and a strong set of leadership, analytic and selling skills to deliver exceptional results and build lasting partnerships, both with customers and across the Freshpet team.
Duties & Responsibilities- Accountable for achieving sales, distribution, velocity, and profitability targets through data-driven planning and execution.
- Lead joint business planning and execution for LCL and Walmart and other key accounts.
- Leverage all available data and insight sources (NIQ, Customer Data, Numerator, US learning) to understand the business and develop plans to unlock growth.
- Develop and deliver sales presentations, negotiate agreements, and drive profitable growth.
- Oversee distributor relationships, ensuring alignment with Freshpet's goals and effective execution at retail.
- Explore and leverage AI tools to create effeciencies and better ways of working.
- Build strong partnerships with category managers and merchants, ensuring Freshpet's objectives are met.
- Lead digital shelf and e-commerce initiatives to drive omnichannel growth and maximize Freshpet's visibility and performance
- Work closely with marketing, supply chain, and finance to deliver seamless customer solutions.
- Identify opportunities and resolve issues independently, demonstrating accountability and initiative.
- Champion a customer-centric approach, ensuring customer needs are at the forefront of decision-making.
- Foster collaboration and teamwork across internal and external partners.
- Communicate clearly and effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
- Demonstrate adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, changing environment.
- Actively seek feedback and pursue continuous improvement.
Education, Training & Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, or related field
- 7+ years' experience in CPG sales or account management, preferably with LCL and WM.
- Experience in CPG category management or related analytic roles strongly preferred.
- Experience working with cross-functional teams to develop and execute creative solutions to drive customer growth.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Bilingual (English & French) an asset.
Skills & Abilities- Strategic Vision: Anticipate market trends and develop forward-thinking plans.
- Problem-Solving: Address challenges proactively and creatively.
- Analytical: Evaluate complex data and situations to make informed decisions.
- Communication: Articulate ideas and recommendations clearly, listen actively, and engage stakeholders.
- Accountability: Take ownership of results and follow through on commitments.
- Adaptability: Thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and embrace change.
- Continuous Improvement: Seek feedback, learn from experience, and pursue growth.
- Customer Focus: Prioritize customer satisfaction and long-term relationships.
- Collaboration: Build productive relationships with coworkers, distributors, and retail partners.
- Digital Productivity: Leverage software tools, including the MS 360 suite and Copilot, ChatGPT and other AI tools/platforms, to boost productivity and facilitate effective teamwork.
- Organizational Skills: Manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently.
Working ConditionsRemote working environment.
