via Indeed
$110K - 125K a year
The role involves managing sales strategies, collaborating cross-functionally, and driving revenue growth.
Requires 7+ years of sales experience, 2+ years of management, and a bachelor's degree, with industry-specific knowledge preferred.
Essendant is a purpose-driven company that reaches beyond business goals to define its success within commerce today. We support our associates, customers and communities – our core values and guiding principles shape what we aspire to do. Integrity, Collaboration, Customer-Centric, Embrace and Drive Change are our core values that serve as the foundation of our pathway to success. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Giving Back, Associate Safety, and Accountability are our guiding principles that motivate us to focus on creating a safe and rewarding experience. Essendant is a leader in supporting the supply chain industry and has been in business for 100 years to deliver the best practices for our customers and associates. Join us at Essendant, the better way to commerce. Sales Category Manager I Scope Generate profitable category revenue by consulting and partnering with our Sales Organization, and the teams of Merchandising, Pricing, Inventory along with our Supplier Partners, while conveying senior leadership strategies and actionable plans. Drive improvement processes and associate development. Major Responsibilities • Manage people, processes, T & E budget/approvals, performance management, compliance activities, and associate development as required by the job • Collaborate cross functionally to execute on category strategies and market intelligence with our internal team members, Sales, Merchandising, Pricing, Inventory, Care and Finance • Create and implement plans to effectively act on strategic initiatives with Account Executives • Coordinate category or business reviews and scorecards, and share information with Suppliers and Merchandise Team as appropriate • Ensure annual revenue targets are met • Provide feedback/coaching on pipeline, LACRM and Account Executive reviews • Align consultative selling and build relationships • Attend industry events engaging with Supplier Partners as appropriate • Support Sales Category Development Managers in their annual goals & career planning process • Understand and demonstrate Essendant’s Core Values and Guiding Actions • Perform other duties as assigned Skills/Knowledge Required • Strong industry & supplier relationships • Expert sales & sales management skills • Strong customer-centric orientation • Proven consensus problem solver • Excellent written and oral communication skills • Proficient in Microsoft tools – Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint • Strong analytical ability with a process-driven perspective • Clear understanding of distribution and pricing strategies • Proven track record of success in growing business with a positive “can-do” attitude • Firm understanding of financial terms, the role of direct and indirect costs in the supply chain and cost allocations • Strong interpersonal skills with a high level of self-confidence & professionalism • Ability to travel when necessary • Effective project management skills • Excellent time management and multitasking skills with the ability to meet deadlines Education and Experience • 7 years of successful selling experience • 2 years of management experience • Bachelor’s degree in business or related field or equivalent experience required • JanSan and/or Foodservice industry experience preferred Benefits: • Health benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision) • 401k with matching • Company Holidays • Overtime Pay for hourly employees • Paid Vacation, Floating Holidays, and Sick Time • Maternity and Parental leave benefits • Employee discount • Tuition Reimbursement • Employee Assistance Program Salary Range: $110,000-$125,000 Essendant drives to be inclusive and celebrates diversity by starting with our associates. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that is committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment. We strongly encourage candidates to apply for opportunities, even if you do not believe you meet every one of the qualifications described. At Essendant we are building an elevated community by creating a safe and supportive work environment. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, including or based on age, race, color, disability, ancestry, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. People are what drives our company. We are one team with endless possibilities. We are Essendant.
This job posting was last updated on 1/29/2026