The Willamette Valley Wineries Association is a nonprofit industry association dedicated to promoting, supporting, and advocating for the Willamette Valley’s world-class wine industry. Through marketing, events, trade education, and strategic partnerships, we connect consumers, media, and trade professionals with the people, places, and stories behind our wines.
Position Summary

The Trade Development Manager is responsible for cultivating relationships with wine trade professionals—including distributors, importers, retailers, restaurants, private clubs, and sommeliers—both domestically and internationally. This role focuses on expanding the Willamette Valley’s presence in key markets, increasing trade engagement, and driving sales opportunities for WVWA member wineries. The position requires a deep understanding of the wine industry, strong networking skills, and the ability to create and execute trade programming, events, and educational initiatives that elevate the profile of Willamette Valley wines. The Trade Development Manager reports directly to the Executive Director and collaborates closely with the marketing and events teams.

Key Responsibilities

Trade Relationship Management
•  Develop and maintain relationships with trade partners, including distributors, on-premise and off-premise buyers, and wine educators and maintain contacts in the association’s CRM.
•  Serve as the WVWA’s primary liaison to trade organizations, guilds, and hospitality networks.
•  Identify and pursue opportunities to increase awareness of Willamette Valley wines with on-premise and off-premise partners, including private clubs.

Trade Programming & Events
•  Lead planning and execution of WVWA trade-focused events, including trade tastings, road shows, market visits, and educational seminars.
•  Serve as the primary relationship manager for trade engagement at WVWA’s signature events including Oregon Pinot Camp, the Willamette Valley Wine Auction, and Pinot in the City.
•  Work closely with membership, marketing and events team members to collaboratively execute these signature events.
•  Develop recruitment strategies, identify high-value attendees, lead outreach, and cultivate lasting partnerships that extend beyond the events themselves.
•  Represent the WVWA at national trade shows and conferences.

Market Development & Sales Support
•  Identify emerging markets and strategic opportunities for Willamette Valley wines.
•  Support member wineries in connecting with trade buyers and distributors.
•  Track and report on market trends, sales opportunities, and competitive positioning.

Trade Education & Storytelling
•  Develop trade education materials, including presentations and region overviews.
•  Lead educational sessions for trade audiences highlighting the Willamette Valley, varieties, winemaking styles, and brand stories.
•  Work with the marketing team to create trade-specific communications and digital resources.
Qualifications

Required
•  Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, hospitality, or related field—or equivalent industry experience.
•  Minimum of 5 years’ experience in wine industry trade relations, sales, distribution, or marketing.
•  Established network of wine trade contacts at regional, national, or international levels.
•  Strong presentation and public speaking skills.
•  Ability to travel frequently for market visits, events, and trade shows.
•  Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred
•  Certified Sommelier, WSET, or similar wine education credentials.
•  Familiarity with CRM platforms and trade marketing tools.

Compensation & Benefits
•  Salary range: $70,000 – $85,000 annually (DOE)
•  Health and retirement benefits package
•  Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
•  Flexible hybrid work schedule
•  Professional development opportunities and wine education support

How to Apply
Please submit your résumé, cover letter, and three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.