Manager, Market Execution

Description

About the Company

Founded in 1876, Sapporo is the first beer of Japan, number one selling Asian beer brand in the U.S., and has grown to become a leading player in the global beer market. With a world-class brewing facility in Richmond, VA, Sapporo USA manages the production, marketing, and distribution of Sapporo's beers nationally. Sapporo’s vision is to “connect worlds” through a shared enjoyment of beer and community. We are proud that our beers are enjoyed around the world, and the spirit of bringing people together remains at the core of what we stand for. We take pride in a rich history following our passion and are in search of people who are committed to help build our legacy for the future.

Summary

The Manager, Market Execution is responsible for driving execution across key distributors and priority markets with a focus on distribution, merchandising, displays, and local activation. This role leads a team of Market Execution Specialists and partners cross-functionally with Zone Strategic Accounts team and Distributor Growth Managers to ensure retailer-level execution aligns with brand and channel strategies. Serving as a critical link between strategy and execution, this role translates plans into measurable results while allocating resources to capitalize on market opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead execution across priority markets, channels, and distributors to drive sales and brand presence
• Establish and uphold local execution standards, including distribution, displays, and merchandising
• Ensure all market activities align with brand and channel strategies
• Lead, deploy and develop a team of Market Execution Specialists to maximize field effectiveness
• Conduct regular ride-withs and provide on-the-job coaching to strengthen capabilities
• Optimize resource allocation based on opportunity and performance trends
• Partner closely with distributor teams to prioritize and execute priorities
• Collaborate with Strategic Account Managers to ensure effective activation of chain programs
• Align with Asian Import team to identify opportunities and address market-specific needs
• Oversee program compliance and local activation
• Track execution KPIs and market progress at both the individual and team level
• Identify performance risks and gaps; implement corrective actions to drive continuous improvement
• Provide ongoing feedback and insights to leadership team
• Deliver hands-on support in high-priority markets or launches
• Lead key resets, displays, and activations during critical periods

Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor's degree in related field
• 5-7 years of related sales experience within the food or beverage industry, preferably in alcohol beverage sales and working within three-tier system
• Proven track record of managing complex sales, sales programs, and portfolios of initiatives through excellent influence skills. Demonstrated ability and success in driving measurable improvements in process, efficiency, and growth
• Effective and persuasive communicator with outstanding presence, presentation and negotiation skills that constantly strive for simplicity and clarity
• Strong execution skills with a passion for diving into the details to inform effective decision-making and drive results
• Cicerone Certified Beer Server certificate or higher desired
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and iDig (including KARMA)
• Flexibility to travel as needed, including weekends as necessary to drive sales and connect with customers
• Regular travel required to retail accounts. Must have a clean Motor Vehicle Record and reliable transportation with vehicle insurance in good standing
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive Health Insurance, 401K, and Bonuses for Eligible Team Members
• Company beer perks program and discounts
• Paid Time Off – including accrued vacation, Sick Leave, and 12 paid Holidays
• Benefit programs supporting Financial Wellness, Health & Wellness and Career Development

Sapporo USA is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, citizenship status, various ability status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression of an otherwise qualified individual, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. Sapporo USA hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications for the job to be filled.

Sapporo USA seeks to build a culturally diverse staff where differences are valued and respected. Women, minorities, individuals with various abilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ and intersectional individuals are encouraged to apply.