Salary: Company Overview The Bluebird Group is a manufacturers representative and consulting firm serving as an invaluable partner to some of the most innovative brands and multinational retailers. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions, focusing on growth, expertise, data, and fostering relationships.

Job Summary We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Sales Director to lead 58 clients within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) broker industry, calling directly on Kroger. This role oversees strategic planning, assortment management, pricing, promotions, and execution to maximize client performance at Kroger. The Sales Director will serve as the primary liaison between brands and Kroger, ensuring alignment on category objectives, shopper insights, and business development opportunities.

In addition to managing key client relationships and driving sales strategies, this leader will partner with other sales team members to enhance capabilities, strengthen Kroger partnerships, and consistently exceed revenue and profitability targets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership Develop and implement Kroger Corporate sale strategies aligned with company objectives

Lead Kroger Kompass (New Item Meetings)

Oversee promotional, sales, and trade planning, including trade fund management

Identify new business opportunities and emerging categories within the CPG industry to break-in emerging brands and expand brand presence

Lead business planning processes for assigned clients, including forecasting and promotional planning and execution of Krogers Divisional Sales Merchandising Plan (DSMP)

Client & Account Management Serve as the primary point of contact for major CPG manufacturer clients

Build and maintain strong relationships with category managers, process managers, and buying teams

Negotiate with both vendors and Kroger to maximize growth and profitability

Leadership Set performance metrics, monitor progress, and provide regular coaching and feedback with clients

Foster a results-oriented, collaborative culture

Market & Industry Insight Stay current on CPG trends, Kroger dynamics, and competitive activities

Leverage syndicated data (e.g., 84.51, IRI, Nielsen, SPINS) to inform strategy and uncover opportunities

Operational & Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with supply chain and logistics teams to ensure strong service levels and on-time delivery

Collaborate with finance on forecasting, trade spend management, and budget accountability

Support innovation pipeline planning and retailer-specific customization needs

Reporting & Analysis Provide regular sales forecasts, performance updates, and client status reports to executive leadership.

Analyze sales metrics and KPIs to optimize account performance and profitability

Prepare and present category reviews, business updates, and performance summaries to clients/brands and retail partners

Translate data into actionable insights to influence retailer decisions

Qualifications

Bachelors degree in Business, Marketing, or related field (MBA preferred)

15+ years of progressive experience in CPG sales, including broker, manufacturer, or retail roles (5yrs+ calling directly on Kroger)

Strong relationships with major national and regional retailers (e.g., Kroger, Walmart, Target, Whole Foods, etc.)

Deep understanding of Krogers retail sales cycles, planograms, trade promotions, and retail execution

Proficient in Krogers 84.51 systems, Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, etc.), and syndicated data platforms (e.g., Nielsen, IRI)

Self-motivated with excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively with other team members

Based in Greater Cincinnati region with ability to travel up to 10% depending on client and team needs

Preferred Skills

Experience managing multiple categories across Kroger, grocery, mass, natural, and club channels

Previous work in a broker environment representing multiple CPG brands and/or work in CPG with large/mid-size brands

Knowledge of e-commerce retail channels and omnichannel sales strategies Specifically Kroger KPM

Benefits We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Competitive base salary + performance-based bonuses

Cell Phone Plan or Reimbursement

Medical

Dental

Vision

HSA (with employer match)

Short Term and Long-Term Disability

Life Insurance

401(k) (with employer match)

Work Environment This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The ability to:

remain seated or standing for extended durations, often more than 50% of the workday.

constantly operate a computer and other office equipment like printers, calculators, and copiers. use one's hands for tasks like typing, grasping, and using a mouse.

move items such as boxes of files, office supplies, or other equipment that weigh up to 10-20 pounds.

Disclaimer: This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. Responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the jobholder might differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, might be required.

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