The International Sales Manager will step into a growing, nimble company and should have a desire to use creativity and independence. This individual will drive results by bringing energy and leadership to the sale of chip potatoes and other vegetables to an existing and growing set of customers. The Sales Manager will be focused on achieving high customer satisfaction in parallel with the short and long-term goals of Cal-Ore Global. The position is responsible for helping develop a strategy for potato sales growth, leading account management and administration, and measuring/reporting progress against goals. The candidate should be a highly motivated sales professional with self-starting capabilities, knowledge of agriculture and proven success in the export of agricultural products with an emphasis on potatoes, fruit, or other vegetables.
Company Overview
Cal-Ore Global is a Joint Venture between Cal-Ore and CSS Farms. Cal-Ore pioneered the export of chip potatoes from the United States and has a deep expertise in international trade, logistics and marketing. CSS Farms is one of the largest potato farming operations in North America and is focused on providing innovative solutions as well as superior quality and service to its customers.
Reporting Relationships
The International Sales Manager will report to the President of Cal-Ore. They will also work closely with CSS Farms Director of Sales & Supply Chain, Pacific Northwest General Manager and others.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
A successful candidate must be able to expertly service existing customers and identify new opportunities to increase sales. This will be done by:
Operational Sales Execution
Execute short and long-term sales goals and execute sales strategies aligning with overall company goals; maintain strong selling margins as set by management
Accurately forecast weekly and longer-term sales activity and trends; work with team to ensure supply supports demand by actively participating in crop planning and forecasting; report on weekly sales updates and monthly sales plans; ensuring orders are obtained and processed
Track, compile and communicate data related to customer and prospect interactions
Prove commitment to overall team and company success with a willingness to assist with duties outside of scope as needed
Lead or contribute to the arrangement and purchase of freight services across multiple geographies.
Customer Relations and Business Development
Work with company management to develop and implement strategies for securing new accounts and achieving sales goals
Solidify and strengthen our relationships with existing customers by communicating via phone and in person, to ensure customer satisfaction
Visit companies that buy our products and educate them on product quality, our quality assurance procedures, expectations, and data reporting
Support resolution of any customer service issues, including following up on collections of accounts as needed
Coordinate with CSS Farms Director of Sales and leverage all marketing initiatives, participate in trade shows and other marketing opportunities as appropriate
Strategic Planning
Develop a strong understanding of the local, regional and global potato and vegetable market and potential; identify and pursue new markets for our products
Monitor competition to enhance sales focus by gathering current marketplace information on pricing, products, delivery schedules, shipping fees, merchandising, sales volume, etc.
Maintain professional knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, participating in professional societies, etc.
Required Position Qualifications
Organizational and Work Knowledge
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area of study
Experience and strong desire to learn about crop production agriculture and a working knowledge of basic agronomy
Ability to present detailed information about Cal-Ore Global products and have knowledge of alternative products in the market
Proficiency with MS Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and other communication tools
Sales Experience
Expert in sales skills: skilled negotiator, problem solver, and closer with the ability to anticipate needs, and develop long-term business relationships
Specific experience with produce sales is required, preferred experience includes table potatoes and/or other vegetables or fruits
Demonstrated ability to consistently meet or exceed defined sales goals
Leadership and Management Experience
A track record of developing and implementing sales strategy as well as getting results through new customer acquisition
An entrepreneurial, highly ethical work style and be comfort with a high level of transparency and change
Work Commitment and Excellence
Ability to establish/maintain productive working relationships with internal staff, management and other departments to effectively carry out job duties
Outstanding communication, organizational, and leadership skills as well as excellent presentation skills
Eligible to work unrestricted in the U.S. without company sponsorship to be considered for this position and can comprehend, read, write and communicate proficiently in English and at least one Asian dialect (preferably Mandarin) and interact with all levels of the organization
Ability to travel internationally and hold a valid U.S. Passport
Preferred Position Qualifications
Experience in the agriculture crop production or food industry
Hands on farming or work experience in the agriculture industry
Fluency in at least one language beyond English and familiarity with global business culture
Physical Requirements
Driver’s License is required, with the ability to visit customers at their location.
Ability to work varied hours/days as business dictates. Periodic domestic and international travel will be required.
Ability to sit at a computer for at least 60% of the work day.
Ability to work in the open environment outdoors periodically with exposure to the elements.
Compensation
Compensation will be commensurate with experience and skills. CSS Farms has a complete benefits package, including health, dental, vision and life insurance, company matched 401(k) and performance bonuses.
CSS Farms in an EOE
CSS Farms expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.