National Sales Director- Deli/ Specialty Cheese

Strategic, results-driven National Sales Director for cheese and deli sales, accountable for crafting national strategies, driving revenue growth, and expanding market share across retail, foodservice, and specialty channels.

Responsibilities

• Create and implement a nationwide sales plan for cheese and deli segments that supports Lipari's growth goals.
• Drive top-line revenue growth, expand gross margins, and improve category profitability.
• Identify new market opportunities, customer segments, and distribution channels.
• Set annual sales targets, forecasts, and key performance indicators.
• Lead and develop the cheese and deli business development team.
• Define performance metrics and establish accountability standards.
• Collaborate with procurement, operations, marketing, and finance teams to align efforts.
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative, customer-first culture.
• Build and nurture strategic relationships with national accounts, retail chains, foodservice operators, and specialty distributors.
• Manage broker networks and ensure alignment with sales objectives.
• Lead senior-level negotiations with key customers and partners.
• Conduct regular business reviews with major accounts.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of cheese and deli trends, product innovations, and the competitive landscape.
• Partner with sourcing and product development to identify growth opportunities and new product introductions.
• Support private label and exclusive product development initiatives.
• Develop promotional plans and category growth strategies.
• Oversee forecasting, budgeting, and P&L performance for the cheese and deli division.
• Monitor inventory turnover and coordinate with supply chain to ensure efficient product flow.
• Analyze sales data and market trends to inform strategic decisions.
• Ensure adherence to company pricing and margin objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field.
• 3 to 5 years of experience in sales and business development.
• 3 to 5+ years in management or supervisory roles.
• Strong financial management skills.
• Advanced proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to develop and adjust annual business plans and budgets as needed.
• Strong organizational and presentation skills.

About Lipari Foods

Lipari Foods is headquartered in Warren, Michigan, and is a leading independent distributor focused on global and specialty foods. With 67 depots across 32 states, Lipari serves customers through a comprehensive approach that combines exclusive and owned brands, retail services, innovative tools, and dependable delivery across 10 categories including deli, bakery, frozen and dairy, and specialty grocery. Lipari Foods LLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.