Director, Grocery Sales-Central

About the Role:

The Sales Director, Grocery – Central is responsible for leading Kinder’s Grocery business across the Central United States, driving profitable growth through strategic customer partnerships, disciplined execution, and strong team leadership. This role oversees a team of Business Development Managers (BDMs) and is accountable for delivering sales, distribution, market share, and profitability objectives across a diverse portfolio of grocery customers.

As a key commercial leader, the Director develops and executes regional growth strategies, builds senior-level customer relationships, and partners cross-functionally with Sales Strategy, Sales Planning, Shopper Marketing, Category Management, Brand, Supply Chain, Demand Planning, and Finance to deliver exceptional results. This role combines strategic leadership, customer engagement, and operational excellence to accelerate Kinder’s growth and strengthen its position within the grocery channel.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Commercial Leadership & Customer Strategy

• Develop and execute the Central Region grocery strategy to deliver sales, profit, distribution, and market share objectives.
• Build and maintain senior-level relationships with key grocery customers, wholesalers, and strategic partners across the region.
• Lead annual business planning, Joint Business Plans (JBPs), customer negotiations, and strategic growth initiatives.
• Identify opportunities to expand distribution, optimize assortment, and accelerate velocity across existing and emerging customers.
• Partner with Revenue Growth Management and Finance to ensure profitable growth through effective pricing, trade investment, and promotional strategies.
• Represent the voice of the customer internally, ensuring customer needs are reflected in business decisions and growth plans.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team of Business Development Managers responsible for regional customer relationships and execution.
• Establish clear objectives, performance expectations, and development plans that drive accountability and growth.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, ownership, continuous improvement, and customer-centric decision-making.