Outside Sales

Job Summary:Merchants Market is seeking a passionate and skilled Outside Sales Associate with a culinary background to join our growing team. This role combines culinary expertise with sales excellence to drive revenue growth, build strong customer relationships, and expand our market presence. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, stays current on culinary and food service trends, and is committed to delivering exceptional customer service. This is an exciting opportunity for a sales professional who is equally passionate about the culinary industry and helping customers succeed.
Essential Functions:• Utilizes culinary expertise to understand customer needs, recommend tailored product solutions, and provide value-added culinary insights.• Establishes and maintains strong customer relationships, serving as a trusted resource for product recommendations, culinary innovation, and exceptional service.• Develops and executes sales strategies to generate new business, qualify and follow up on leads, secure orders, and consistently achieve sales objectives.• Manages customer accounts by collecting weekly orders, entering orders into the ERP system, introducing new products, resolving shipment issues, and recommending alternative products when needed.• Conducts regular customer visits throughout St. Thomas and St. John, ensuring customer satisfaction, strengthening partnerships, and identifying opportunities for business growth.• Monitors accounts receivable, pricing, sales margins, and profitability while collaborating with leadership to support sound business decisions and financial performance.
Required Education and Experience: • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.• Five (5) or more years of sales experience, preferably within the foodservice, hospitality, or related industry.• Food sales experience required.• Culinary arts experience required.• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.• Experience working with ERP systems.• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, negotiate effectively, and close sales.• Bilingual skills preferred.• Valid U.S. Passport and ability to travel as required.
Physical Requirements: • Able to work in an office environment and lift up to 25 pounds.
Benefits:• Medical• Dental• Vision• Company-Paid Benefits, including:  • Life Insurance – Employee, Spouse & Dependents  • Short-Term Disability  • Long-Term Disability• 401(k) / Roth 401(k) (Company Match)• Paid Time Off (PTO)• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)• Voluntary Benefits Offered
EEO Statement:Our company is committed to equal employment opportunities. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis [“protected class”] including, but not limited to, veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class under federal, state or local law.
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