Director of retail sales

If you are passionate about sales and have a proven track record of driving retail sales success and strategic growth, we need to talk!

About the Company

EW Grobbel is a family food company that was established in 1883. Headquartered in Detroit's historic Eastern Market, EW Grobbel specializes in whole-muscle meat proteins and pickle products. We are best known as "America’s Oldest Corned Beef Specialist". We supply our products to thousands of locations around the United States. At EW Grobbel, we have proudly delivered high-quality food for 140 years. Recognized as one of Crain’s “50 Fastest Growing Companies in Detroit,” we are poised to become a national powerhouse.

About the Role

The Director of Retail Sales is a hands-on leadership role overseeing all aspects of retail sales and is responsible for leading and executing the retail sales strategy for a growing food company specializing in premium meat products. While the company has strong roots and penetration in the foodservice channel, the retail segment presents a key area of growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of the retail sales function, including national and regional accounts, distributor relationships, and direct retail customers.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive retail growth strategy, aligned with company goals and brand priorities.
• Manage existing retail relationships with major retailers, ensuring consistent communication, high service levels, and alignment with promotional calendars.
• Prospect and secure new retail partnerships across grocery, club, and specialty channels.
• Oversee pricing, promotions, and contract negotiation in collaboration with leadership.
• Work cross-functionally with operations, marketing, R&D, and logistics to ensure successful product launches and ongoing execution.
• Lead, mentor, and develop retail sales staff; oversee the daily activities of the merchandiser and future team members.
• Prepare and present sales reports, forecasts, and performance metrics to senior leadership.
• Monitor and analyze market trends, seasonal trends, customer feedback, and consumer purchasing data to influence key business decisions, including SKU rationalization.
• Represent the company at customer meetings, trade shows, and industry events.

About You

Progressive sales experience within the Meat industry, working with National Retail Chains (Grocery, Supermarket, Club, Wholesale) is required. Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to thrive in a hands-on, fast-paced environment. The ability to set clear objectives and design a strategy that inspires the team. Strong analytical skills to analyze sales and pricing data to make data-driven decisions. Excellent verbal and written communication, negotiation, and presentation skills. Strong organizational and time management skills. Willingness to travel as needed (estimated 40-50%). Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Why Work for us?

The foundation of our organization is centered on growing and developing each employee, both personally and professionally while producing premium quality food products. As an employee of EW Grobbel, you will be part of a fast-paced, high-performance team, driven by employee engagement and powered by work precision. This is a full-time position, and the total compensation range for this position is $150,000 - $175,000 (includes bonus potential). Additionally, we offer robust health benefits (medical, dental, vision, and life insurance), retirement benefits (4% match to 401K), paid time off (holidays and vacation), and other perks.