Outside Sales Representative at Acosta Group in Columbus, GA

Outside Sales Representative

Location: Columbus, GA, United States

Physically calls on independent stores to sell our products. Presents items, obtains new items authorized, sell in promos, some merchandising. Follows our monthly priorities from the business managers for each client. Enter turnover orders for all stores visited so they can be forwarded to our distributors to be delivered. Coordinate all store events such as anniversary sales, demos, new store openings, remodel expansions, etc.

Some Essential Functions of this Position:

• Visit the assigned stores in the territory at least monthly.
• Present new items for our clients and secure orders for same.
• Present promotional activity to store buyers and secure orders and if possible off shelf displays.
• Plan ahead with buyers up to three months on promos.
• Access distribution on existing items to be sure they are being carried.
• Assist in any merchandising needed for our products.
• Enter the orders taken into our turnover order system and transmit to the office for delivery of the product by the distributors.
• Work with the store on all special projects such as demos, trade events, remodels, new store openings, etc.
• Maintain current knowledge of products we sell and new items.
• Maintain a rapport with regional managers of our clients.
• Keep all informed of issues with stores, competitive activity, trends etc.
• Maintain full distribution and display of products in assigned accounts.
• Rotate stock, clean and stock display and price merchandise as appropriate.
• Perform such duties as checking date codes, ensuring adherence to approved plan-o-gram.
• Miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Minimum Education Requirements:

• High School Diploma/GED

Experience Requirement:

• Two years of outside sales and retail experience.

Knowledge, Skill and Ability Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and must be able to drive a car for extended periods of time.
• Must be available for overnight travel.
• Must be available for weekend work (demos and Food Shows). Must be able to work nights and holidays.
• Must be willing and able to work in extremely cold conditions (i.e. refrigerated and freezer sections of retail stores).
• Must be able to effectively communicate with others. Must be able to speak and hear. Must be able to walk, stoop, kneel, reach, pull, grasp and stand on a daily basis. Must have good vision, dexterous use of both hands and be able to operate a calculator, fax machine, telephone, copier, hand truck, pallet jack, hammer, screwdriver, drill and case cutter.
• Must be able to stand and/or walk for long periods of time.