Area Sales Manager, Greater Chicago

Area Manager For Greater ChicagoAs the Area Manager for Greater Chicago, you'll take the lead in understanding the local market and building strategies that drive growth in market share and sales. You'll focus on maintaining strong, personal relationships with key accountswhether on-premise or in retailby showcasing Avaline's portfolio of wines, ensuring our brand's story and quality are front and center.Reporting to the Sales Director, North Central. This position is based in Chicagoland.What You'll Do:Manage and grow Avaline's wine portfolio across assigned territories and channelsTrack sales depletions and oversee the execution of strategic sales programsPartner with the Sales Director and distributor networks to develop and implement effective programmingExecute national account strategies at the regional levelLead local market events and activations in collaboration with internal teams and agency partnersManage Avaline's Chicago Metro Territory with SGWS team.Build and maintain strong relationships with key buyers to drive sales, menu placements, and shelf visibilityWork autonomously, as well as collaboratively with distributor teams and Avaline partners, to drive growth and execution, maintain accountability to KPIs, and deliver results across the territoryOwn territory-level sales strategy from goal setting through performance tracking and executionWork both independently and collaboratively with distributor teams to achieve KPIs and deliver measurable resultsLaunch new items and LTOs with confidence, ensuring a strong in-market presenceUse tools like VIP iDig, SGWS Compass, and internal dashboards to analyze performance and inform future strategyLead trainings, tastings, and events with retail staff, restaurant teams, and consumersEnsure consistent execution of POS, promotional materials, and brand standards across key accountsAct as a proactive problem solver and brand ambassador, bringing energy, insight, and ownership to everyWho You Are:Strong communicator with top-tier organizational skills and attention to detailNaturally collaborative, self-starter, and able to work independently in the fieldA proven track record of delivering sales objectives and growth.Analytical thinker who can use data to inform decisions and strategyComfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentWine education (WSET or CMS) is a plusQualifications:Experience in wholesale supply-chain management including building relationships, launching products, and growing sales while managing profitability.Deeply connected in the Chicago on-premise scene with strong existing relationships in key image accounts3 to 5 years of experience in the wine and spirits industryProven ability to launch products, build distribution, and grow sales within budgetProficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferredExperience working with and managing distributor partnersBased in the Chicagoland area with the ability to be in the Chicago Metro area. 3-4 or days per week.The Area Manager role offers a starting salary of $100-120K Base + 15% Bonus, based on a variety of factors.Benefits package includes Medical (90% employer contribution), Dental (75% employer contribution), Vision (75% employer contribution), Share Options, Unlimited PTO, 18 paid holidays, Car Allowance, Product Allowance, Electronics Allowance, HSA/FSA, 401k, Paid Parental Leave, Life & Disability Insurance, Company-sponsored WSET Certification, Employee Discounts and much morePlease apply by submitting your resume to ash@drinkavaline.com.