National Account Manager

National Accounts Manager – Lola’s Fine Foods

Base Range $75K-$95K base

On-site, but open to remote depending on the applicant.

The Director of National Accounts is a critical leadership role responsible for driving sustainable revenue growth, deepening strategic customer partnerships, and expanding Lola’s presence across national and regional retail, foodservice, and distribution channels. This individual will oversee both the management of existing accounts and the development of new business opportunities, ensuring alignment with company objectives, brand standards, and operational capabilities. The role may evolve over time, and responsibilities may expand based on organizational needs. Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Management and Growth of Existing Accounts

• Maintain, nurture, and expand a diverse portfolio of established customers across national and regional retail, distribution, and foodservice partners.
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with buyers, category managers, and other key decision-makers.
• Regularly analyze business performance, category data, and customer insights to identify growth opportunities and formulate action plans.
• Develop and deliver compelling sales presentations, business reviews, and promotional proposals that align with retailer goals and Lola’s strategic priorities.
• Create annual and quarterly business plans to improve velocity, distribution, and profitability.
• Collaborate with, guide, and hold brokers and sales partners accountable to ensure execution of Lola’s initiatives in-market.
• Monitor ongoing account performance and proactively address challenges, supply needs, and promotional execution. 2. New Business Development
• Identify, pursue, and secure new distribution opportunities across targeted national and regional retailers, foodservice operators, distributors, and emerging channels.
• Establish strong relationships with prospective accounts, clearly communicating Lola’s value proposition and category advantages.
• Prepare customized proposals, pricing structures, and business plans for new account acquisitions.
• Lead new customer onboarding processes, ensuring smooth setup of items, promotions, logistics, and long-term planning.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams (operations, marketing, finance, supply chain) to support successful launches and long-term growth.
• Manage broker networks to ensure alignment, visibility, and accountability around new business pipelines. 3. Reporting, Communication, and Collaboration
• Keep management informed by preparing timely reports such as weekly activity summaries, monthly account updates, sales forecasts, call reports, and annual strategic plans.
• Partner cross-functionally with marketing, operations, finance, and leadership teams to align customer needs with organizational capabilities.
• Provide recommendations to management regarding customer issues, pricing adjustments, market opportunities, and competitive activity. 4. Customer Service & Issue Resolution
• Address and resolve customer concerns by identifying root causes, proposing solutions, coordinating with internal departments, and ensuring positive outcomes.
• Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and protect the integrity of the Lola’s brand in every interaction. 5. Professional Development & Industry Engagement
• Stay current with industry trends, retailer expectations, market dynamics, and competitive activity through continuous learning.
• Attend relevant conferences, workshops, professional groups, and educational events to expand knowledge and network within the Consumer Packaged Goods industry. Qualifications & Experience
• Minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in Consumer Packaged Goods, with strong knowledge of pricing strategy, supply chain processes, retail marketing, category management, and distributor relationships.
• Proven track record of managing large national accounts and successfully acquiring new customers.
• Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to craft persuasive proposals and deliver high-impact presentations using PowerPoint or similar tools.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data, category trends, and financial metrics.
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally and manage broker networks effectively.
• Highly organized with strong follow-through and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• This role requires travel as needed, which may be up to several days per week, depending on business demands, customer meetings, trade shows, or internal needs. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience writing successful business proposals?

Experience:

• CPG: 5 years (Preferred)
• Broker Management: 5 years (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• West Des Moines, IA 50265: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 50% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person