What are the responsibilities and job description for the Key Account Manager - Veterinary position at Inaba Foods USA Inc?
Key Account Manager – Veterinary Channel
Location: Oakbrook, IL (Chicago)
About Inaba Foods:
Inaba Foods is a global leader in premium pet foods, treats, toppers, and complements, built on a proud family tradition of excellence since 1958. Our human-grade, nutrient-rich products bring joy to pets and peace of mind to pet parents around the world. As Japan’s #1 brand of premium cat and dog dinners and treats, Inaba continues to expand rapidly across global markets.
We’re seeking a Key Account Manager (Veterinary Channel) to strengthen and expand our relationships within the veterinary community—developing partnerships with veterinary distributors, buying groups, and clinic networks to grow Inaba’s presence and performance in this vital channel.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for veterinary distributors, corporate veterinary groups, and key clinic networks.
- Build and nurture long-term relationships that drive sales growth and distribution within the veterinary channel.
- Develop and execute sales strategies tailored to the needs of veterinary partners, aligning with company goals and product priorities.
- Review sales data, purchasing trends, and profitability to identify growth opportunities and optimize performance.
- Conduct business reviews and sales presentations with distributor and clinic partners to highlight performance, new products, and marketing initiatives.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and product teams to align sales efforts with promotions, inventory, and production planning.
- Negotiate pricing, promotional programs, and terms with key accounts in accordance with company guidelines.
- Monitor market dynamics and competitor activities to provide actionable insights and recommendations.
- Execute promotional strategies and educational programs that support sell-through at the clinic level.
- Manage budget and expenses effectively while achieving sales objectives.
- Uphold Inaba’s standards of integrity, professionalism, and customer service in all interactions.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, or a related field.
- 3–5 years of CPG or pet industry sales experience; experience within the veterinary channel or distributor model strongly preferred.
- Proven ability to manage national or regional accounts and build strong professional partnerships.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and develop actionable strategies.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills (PowerPoint proficiency required).
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience working with veterinary distributors and understanding the veterinary purchasing model.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Must hold an unrestricted driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Willingness to travel frequently for account visits, trade shows, and events.
- Ability to commute to the office daily.
"Inaba Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment laws, including California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act."