Craft/Import Brand Manager

Description

The Craft/Import Brand Manager will be responsible for managing relationships with Pepin Distributing Company’s craft/import beverage suppliers and overseeing the performance of multiple brands. This individual will play a key role in driving growth for established brands while strategically introducing and expanding new products in the market.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist Total Beverage Manager with new brand training/sampling/introduction with Sales Teams monthly.
• Serve as the primary contact for craft/import beverage suppliers, building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships.
• Work closely with suppliers to align brand goals, market strategies, and annual growth objectives.
• Conduct joint sales calls with all sales teams, suppliers, and PDC KAM’s.
• Monitor industry trends and consumer insights to drive brand positioning and adapt strategies to maximize market impact.
• Collaborate with the sales team to set targets and develop tactics for maximizing distribution and sales across non-alcoholic brands.
• Provide the sales team with training and insights on brand priorities, product knowledge, and promotional strategies to support effective execution.
• Utilize VIP/iDig and Salient data and market analysis to shape go-to-market strategies for new brands, identifying key distribution channels and growth opportunities.
• Regularly communicate brand performance, market insights, and promotional results to suppliers, leveraging data from VIP/iDig to provide actionable insights.
• Take the initiative to build a positive relationship with all retail customers and exceed their sales and service expectations.
• Responsible for attending special activities (i.e. grand openings, samplings, promotions, etc.)

Requirements

REQUIREMENTS

• 3-5 years of experience in beverage brand management, preferably overseeing a portfolio of multiple suppliers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, with heavy focus on Excel and Power Point.
• Experience with VIP/iDig and Salient systems for performance tracking, reporting, and strategic planning.
• Strong communication and relationship management skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with both internal teams and external suppliers.
• Ability to develop and execute brand strategies, with an emphasis on supporting new-to-market brands and product growth.
• Familiar with Supplier Forecasting Portals, Chain Retailer Reporting, and Shelf Set Analysis.
• Strong work ethic with passion to be an industry leader at retail market.