Job Description

Cooperidge Consulting Firm is seeking a Market Sales Manager for a top Family-Run Wine & Spirits company in the West Haven, CT area.

This is a high-energy, hands-on field execution role focused on driving volume, distribution, and trade marketing activation across a premium brand portfolio. Covering both on-premise (restaurants, bars) and off-premise (liquor stores) accounts, the Market Sales Manager is responsible for building strong trade relationships, implementing route-to-market initiatives, and ensuring superior in-store presence. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives on regular market travel and possesses a "hands-on" approach to merchandising and consumer-facing brand demos.

Job Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management: Manage the company’s diverse brand portfolio across the assigned market, ensuring consistent growth in both on and off-premise accounts.
• Sales Programming: Plan and implement strategic sales programs and route-to-market initiatives to increase market share and brand visibility.
• Trade Marketing: Drive field execution through merchandising, display building, and the effective deployment of Point-of-Sale (POS) and marketing assets.
• Consumer Activation: Deliver engaging consumer-facing activations, including professional tastings and product demonstrations.
• Compliance Monitoring: Conduct monthly field audits to ensure pricing accuracy, menu placement, POS compliance, and display standards are met.
• Relationship Building: Engage regularly with distributors and key accounts to build long-term trade partnerships through frequent field travel.
• Reporting: Provide detailed feedback and performance reporting on in-market trends and competitor activities to the leadership team.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years of experience in the Wine and Spirits industry is REQUIRED.
• Proven track record of working independently as a self-starter in a field-based role.
• Stable career history with demonstrated growth in sales or brand management.

Certifications/Physical Requirements

• Valid driver’s license is required; ability to travel 4–5 days per week within the territory.
• Physical Ability: Must be able to lift up to 65 pounds (sample cases/displays) and stand/walk for extended periods during tastings and account visits.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal, leadership, and technical communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage a complex route and multiple account types.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance plans
• Life insurance coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement