What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sales Representative position at Benchmark Beverage Company?
Company Description Benchmark Beverage Company is an independent, family-owned beverage brand specialist founded in 2016 and based in Michigan. The company focuses on developing, growing, and marketing a diverse portfolio of beverage brands across spirits, beer, and emerging flavored malt beverages. Its portfolio includes established brands such as Padre Azul tequila, Dark Horse, and Brew Detroit, as well as innovative offerings like Great America flavored malt beverage. Benchmark works closely with distributors to provide consumers with strong value, delivering quality products at price points spanning the full spectrum. Team members join a growing organization that is committed to brand building, market expansion, and long-term partnerships in the beverage industry.
Role Description The Sales Representative is a full-time, salary commission role, based in Traverse City or Gaylord. This role is responsible for managing and growing a defined territory by developing strong relationships with distributors, retailers, on and off-premise accounts. Day-to-day activities include visiting accounts, presenting product lines, securing new placements, monitoring inventory levels, and ensuring effective execution of promotional programs. The Sales Representative will track sales performance, work the market day-to-day, and communicate market feedback to internal teams. The role also involves participating in tastings, events, and brand activations, maintaining up-to-date product knowledge, and collaborating closely with marketing and operations to support brand growth.
Qualifications
- Proven sales, account management, and customer relationship skills within consumer products, preferably beverages.
- Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities to influence purchasing decisions at distributors and retail accounts.
- Organizational, time-management, and territory-planning skills to manage multiple accounts and priorities effectively.
- Basic analytical and reporting skills to interpret sales data, market trends, and promotional performance.
- 2-3 years' experience in the alcohol and beverage industry, including distribution, retail dynamics, and compliance requirements, is highly beneficial.
- Comfort with on-site work involving frequent local travel, including the ability to lift and transport product samples and marketing materials as needed.
- Ability to work independently, meet sales targets, and collaborate with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
- High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field preferred.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for regular account visits in the assigned MI area.