Experienced Manager of Customer Development for Strategic Business Growth and Category Management – Open to Remote Opportunities

Introduction to blithequark

At blithequark, we are passionate about driving business growth through innovative customer development strategies and category management principles. As a leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector, we are committed to delivering exceptional results and exceeding our clients' expectations. Our team of experts is dedicated to staying at the forefront of industry trends and best practices, ensuring that our partners receive the most effective and actionable insights to drive their business forward. We are now seeking an experienced Manager of Customer Development to join our team, preferably with a background in the adult beverage industry and experience working with major retailers like blithequark.

Job Overview

The Manager of Customer Development will play a critical role in driving business growth and category management for our clients. This position will be responsible for managing data sources, analyzing market trends, and developing effective strategies to deliver sales, margin, and market development goals. The ideal candidate will have a strong analytical mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to drive results.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and analyze data from multiple sources, including POS data, syndicated data, and account-specific database information, to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for growth.
• Develop and communicate complex information to multiple stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and internal teams, to drive business results and improve category performance.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, applying this knowledge to deliver effective solutions and drive business growth.
• Analyze and report on category performance, including sales, profits, margins, and market share, to identify areas for improvement and optimize business strategies.
• Develop, communicate, and execute performance metrics and goals relevant to each business, as part of regular business reviews, to ensure alignment and drive results.
• Create and deliver effective reports and presentations using data and insights to inform business decisions and drive growth.
• Evaluate and make recommendations on supplier performance to enhance inventory and fill rate objectives, ensuring superior client satisfaction and driving business results.
• Apply customer, consumer, and industry insights, using market research data, to deliver category growth and drive business development.
• Collaborate with external retail customers, key suppliers, and internal teams to deliver insights and recommendations, driving business growth and improving category performance.
• Manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, performing other job-related duties as assigned, to ensure the successful delivery of business objectives.

Requirements and Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's Degree and experience within the CPG sector, preferably in the adult beverage industry. Experience working with major retailers like blithequark is highly valued. The candidate should possess strong analytical, problem-solving, decision-making, and quantitative analysis skills, with the ability to incorporate and interpret data from multiple unrelated sources into concise, action-oriented recommendations.

Essential qualifications include:

• Strong understanding of National Chain Sales, Retail, and Distributor operations.
• Expertise in category management principles, syndicated data, and shopper/consumer insights (Numerator/Spectra, etc.).
• Ability to collaborate with external retail customers, key suppliers, and internal teams to deliver insights and recommendations.
• Assertive leadership and decision-making skills, with an aptitude for understanding changing market dynamics and resolving complex problems.
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of Excel and PowerPoint.

Preferred qualifications include experience working with Syndicated data (Nielsen, IRI), Internal Shipment Data, and Household Panel, as well as a proven track record of success in a similar role.

Skills and Competencies

To be successful in this role, the candidate will require a unique blend of analytical, communication, and leadership skills, including:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and develop actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex information to multiple stakeholders.
• Collaborative leadership style, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Strong decision-making and quantitative analysis skills, with the ability to drive business results and improve category performance.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, with a strong focus on delivering results and driving business growth.

Career Growth and Learning Opportunities

At blithequark, we are committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Manager of Customer Development, you will have access to a range of training and development opportunities, including:

• Industry-leading training programs, designed to enhance your skills and knowledge in category management, syndicated data, and shopper/consumer insights.
• Opportunities for career advancement, with a clear path for professional growth and development.
• Collaboration with experienced professionals, who can provide guidance, mentorship, and support in your role.
• Access to the latest industry trends and best practices, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the CPG sector.

Work Environment and Company Culture

At blithequark, we pride ourselves on our dynamic and supportive work environment. As a Manager of Customer Development, you will be part of a collaborative and results-driven team, with a strong focus on delivering exceptional results and driving business growth. Our company culture is built on the values of innovation, integrity, and teamwork, and we are committed to creating a work environment that is engaging, challenging, and rewarding.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

At blithequark, we offer a competitive compensation package, including a range of perks and benefits, such as:

• A comprehensive wellness program, designed to support your physical and mental health.
• Disability insurance, to provide financial protection in the event of illness or injury.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance, to support your overall health and wellbeing.
• A 401(k) plan, to help you plan for your future financial security.
• Flexible spending accounts, to help you manage your expenses and save for the future.
• Tuition reimbursement, to support your ongoing education and professional development.
• Parental leave, to provide support during significant life events.
• Paid sick time, to ensure that you can take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and results-driven professional, with a passion for category management and customer development, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Manager of Customer Development at blithequark, you will have the chance to work with a talented team of professionals, drive business growth, and develop your skills and knowledge in a dynamic and supportive environment. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your career to the next level – apply now to join our team and start driving business results with blithequark.