K-12 Sales Specialist (Food Broker)

Knoxville, TN

Full Time

Sales and Business Development

Mid Level

K-12 Sales Specialist (Food Broker)

Affinity Group is seeking a K-12 Sales Specialist to make their mark in our Tennessee market. We’re looking for a motivated sales professional passionate about the K-12 food industry. Reporting to the Southeast Director of K-12 Segment Sales, the ideal candidate will have experience in K-12 education, with preference given to those with a background in K-12 food service or cafeteria operations.

This role requires a consultative selling approach, strong communication skills, and the ability to influence decision-makers. Responsibilities include sales development, prospecting, lead generation, and managing the sales pipeline to improve K-12 nutrition.

Our Segment Specialists are goal-driven, passionate foodies with a proven track record in business development, consultative selling, and account management. Success in this role relies on leveraging creativity and communication skills to showcase the outstanding food brands we represent.

Who We Are:

Great Place to Work Certified | Your Bridge to Success | Why Our People Love Affinity Group

Affinity Group is one of the fastest-growing food sales and marketing agencies, with a national presence throughout North America and Canada. We represent some of the most recognizable and well-regarded food brands in the industry.

Supported by the corporate sales support team, you’ll be part of a team that drives brand awareness and increases market demand for our clients. Affinity Group brings decades of expertise and a consultative system that is tailored for a localized approach.

A typical week might include the following:

Consistently identify and implement event/activity plans for assigned accounts.
Build awareness of the client's unique value proposition by presenting features and benefits of the product lines.
Drive inquiry generation through strategic sales presentations and partnerships.
Influence high-impact partnerships in the market while executing daily tasks like virtual presentations, calls, and emails to maximize value and increase cases shipped.
Use a consultative approach to deliver exceptional sales presentations for K-12 foodservice directors, school board members, charter organizations, food service associates, and community advocacy groups.
Work from a combination of a local office and remote locations, aiming to meet ambitious sales targets.
Independently support prospective clients through the entire sales cycle, leveraging CRM systems and ensuring data integrity.
Use critical thinking to guide prospects towards a successful purchasing experience.

The role might be right for you if you have:

3-5 years of experience, preferably in food sales/marketing or K-12 food service management.
Strong time management and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities while traveling.
Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and listening).
Self-motivated and driven to take initiative and ownership in client relationships.
High emotional intelligence with the ability to build and nurture relationships.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and flexible schedule for daily travel and occasional overnight events.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, CRM systems, and virtual presentation tools (Teams, Zoom, etc.).

Bonus points if you possess:

Bachelor’s degree
Relevant industry related professional experience
Experience working with CRM systems

What to expect:

The typical work week: Monday through Friday
During the food trade show season, the position requires the ability to stand for extended periods, with the ability to safely lift case goods (up to 50 lbs.).
Travel: Position requires daily motor vehicle travel to assigned locations.

How We Make Room for You

Health & Wellness: Medical, vision, and dental insurance plans
Company life insurance, supplemental insurance, and short/long term benefits
401(k) Retirement plan
Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
Paid Time Off & Company Holidays

The Affinity Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

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