Key Account Manager - Sales

Key Account Manager – Pet Food &

Supplies (Retail Channel)

Location: United States (Travel up to 60%)
Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role

We are seeking a high-impact Key Account Manager with a strong background in the pet food and pet supply industry to drive growth within our national retail channel. This role is responsible for developing and executing strategic sales plans, strengthening vendor partnerships, and delivering profitable growth across key customer accounts.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in the pet industry, understands retail dynamics, and thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

What You’ll Do

Strategic Planning & Market Development

Develop and execute national business plans to achieve revenue and profitability targets

Identify new market opportunities and build expansion strategies within and beyond existing channels

Provide leadership with actionable insights on customer trends, competitive activity, and growth opportunities

Partner cross-functionally to align on strategic initiatives and business priorities

Sales & Account Management

Own and manage relationships with Key Account customers across the U.S.

Develop tailored sales programs, promotions, and growth strategies with vendor partners

Drive revenue and margin performance through pricing, assortment optimization, and promotional effectiveness

Lead Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) highlighting performance, insights, and growth opportunities

Ensure strong customer engagement through proactive communication and service excellence

Operational Alignment & Process Optimization

Partner with Operations to streamline ordering, invoicing, and fulfillment processes

Provide accurate sales forecasts, including new product launches and promotions

Identify and remove operational barriers impacting customer success

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Vendor Engagement

Work closely with Vendor Management and Marketing teams to execute programs and campaigns

Represent customer voice in category planning, product launches, and promotional strategies

Communicate key insights, risks, and opportunities to leadership

Industry Representation

Represent the organization at industry events, trade shows, and customer meetings

Promote company values, policies, and high ethical standards in all interactions

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university

10+ years of experience in a consumer products or related industry

3+ years in Key Account Management (retail environment required)

Pet industry experience preferred (pet food/pet supplies highly desirable)

Strong negotiation and contract management experience

Proven success managing large, complex retail accounts

Key Skills & Competencies

Deep knowledge of retail KPIs, DSD models, and sales analytics

Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities

Exceptional communication and presentation skills

Ability to influence and collaborate across cross-functional teams

Results-driven with strong organizational and execution skills

Why Join Us?

Opportunity to shape growth in a thriving pet industry category

High visibility role partnering with senior leadership and key customers

Collaborative, cross-functional environment

Competitive compensation and benefits package

Ideal Candidate Profile

You are a strategic, relationship-driven sales leader who understands the nuances of the pet category, has experience managing national retail accounts, and knows how to translate insights into profitable growth. You’re equally comfortable in front of customers, internal stakeholders, and executive leadership.

INDPPFS