Job Responsibilities:

The Sales Manager is responsible for overseeing the AUGUSTA WINE COMPANY portfolio, including Augusta Winery and Montelle Winery with potential expansion to affiliated brands, in the assigned geographical territory. Working in close partnership with the General Manager and Distribution Director of Sales, this role centers on managing distributor relationships and aims to elevate Brand Sales and distribution within the assigned area. The ideal candidate resides in and is familiar with the Kansas City area.

Job Duties:

Work with the General Manager to manage distributor relationships, set pricing and programming, participate in distributor sales meetings, conduct seminars for distributors, retailers, and consumer groups, and prepare annual budget forecasts and distributor goals. Conduct distributor reviews and approve/process bill back/charge-backs in a timely fashion.

Manage, mentor and develop distributor Territory Managers throughout a geographical territory to include maintaining constant dialogue and providing direction/guidance.

Manage GM and Winemaker visits and perform necessary follow up.

Develop and monitor Key Account penetration.

Participate in distributor management meetings to establish goals, pricing and programming as well as conducting regular reviews of depletions, programs, inventories, orders and responding to issues that might arise.

Conduct Distributor Sales Rep Ride-withs, on a regular basis.

Present Pre-sells and New Releases to distributor management.

Review program results and suggest corrective actions.

Follows all safety policies and procedures; communicates hazards and/or suggests improvements to manager.

Performs any other duties as assigned.


Skills and Qualifications:

Passion for fine wine and strong general knowledge of Missouri wines, and a fine wine portfolio.

Excellent organizational skills, time management, and the ability to multitask.

Strong project management skills.

Excellent communication skills; to include the ability to negotiate and mediate situations, speak to large audiences making effective presentations and possess strong writing skills.

Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to formulate strategies based on competitive data to meet both short and long term company objectives.

Excellent computer skills to include Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. Design program knowledge and experience is a plus.

Industry trend awareness and foresight.

Sales strategy building including planning and forecasting utilizing sales trends, history, and inventory projections.

Leadership and motivational skills.


Physical demands:

Sitting for extended periods including travel, repetitive hand movements during typing, bending, reaching, lifting up to 40 pounds, visual acuity, and manual dexterity are essential requirements.


Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree required.

Minimum of 5 years' sales management experience with increasing levels of responsibilities.

Minimum of 7 years' experience working in the fine wine industry holding either a supplier or distributor management position.

Experience working in a multi-state environment overseeing multiple distributors.

Strong relationships with distributor networks and in key on/off premise accounts within the geographic region.

Knowledge of distribution pricing strategies and ability to manage and maintain profit margin negotiations.

Ability to work a flexible schedule including evening hours and weekends when needed.

Travel is required at least 40% of the time.

Valid Driver’s License required.