SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is an innovative and sustainable manufacturer fueling the future of food. With roots tracing back over 50 years, SunOpta drives growth for today’s leading brands by serving as a trusted innovation partner and value-added manufacturer, crafting organic, plant-based beverages, fruit snacks, nutritional beverages, broths and tea products sold through retail, club, foodservice and e-commerce channels. Alongside the company’s commitment to top brands, retailers and coffee shops, SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream®, and West Life™. For more information, visit SunOpta and LinkedIn.
SunOpta is looking for talented individuals that demonstrate our most valued behaviors: Passion, Dedication, Speed, Entrepreneurship, Customer-Centricity, and Problem-Solver, to help create a brighter, healthier, and sustainable future of food!
Job Summary
Sales Operations Specialist is responsible for effective communication, analytics, and communication with customers and cross-functional partners. You'll foster a customer-centric environment, focus on customer KPI’s, and support the sales team. The customer base for this role are primarily large grocery chains who look to SunOpta for manufacturing of their store brands.
The successful candidate should have exceptional organization and communication skills, as well as a sharp eye for detail. The ideal candidate can support multiple customers’ needs and maintain a routine to support the customer and SunOpta with the data needed to deliver on customer expectations. In return, we offer a role that will keep you engaged and provide broad experiences to further develop your professional skillset.
Essential Functions Of The Job
Forecasting:
Collaborate with Sr. Sales Manager to provide an accurate forecast to the supply chain team.
Participate in Demand Consensus Monthly Planning to provide forecast updates and commentary on upcoming customer demand.
Support customer growth initiatives:
Work with Sr. Sales Manager to communicate new product requests and product change requirements to the cross-functional team.
Collaborate with cross-functional team to collect materials required for customer Request for Pricing/Proposal/Quote (RFP process).
Tracking & Reporting:
Analyze & report out customer sales data to support accurate forecasting and supply planning.
Sales Enablement:
Tracking and reporting of key performance metrics to help drive Sales productivity including customer cost management
Demonstrate high levels of quality, accuracy, and process consistency in the sales organization’s planning efforts.
Enter product and company data in customer portals
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business-related field.
2+ years in a sales support B2B professional role.
Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
Understanding of sales processes and strategies
A proven track record of driving successful sales operational initiatives.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including exceptional Excel skills.
Knowledge And Skills
Project Management Skills: Proficiency in project management is essential to effectively plan, execute, and oversee key initiatives. This includes the ability to manage timelines, allocate resources, and ensure projects are delivered on time.
Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills are crucial for collaborating with cross-functional teams, clients, and stakeholders. Effective communication, active listening, and the ability to build positive relationships are essential in this role.
Attention to Detail: Attention to detail is vital for ensuring accuracy and precision in all aspects of the job. This includes data analysis, reporting, and quality control to minimize errors and improve overall efficiency.
Critical and Analytical Thinking: Critical thinking involves the ability to assess complex situations, identify problems, and devise effective solutions. Analytical thinking is necessary for data-driven decision-making and strategy development.
Transactional/Supporting Capabilities: Proficiency in transactional and supporting tasks is important for managing routine operational activities efficiently. This may involve administrative, documentation, or logistical responsibilities that keep processes running smoothly.
Additional Considerations
Travel Expectation: Up to 20%.
This position will be at the Corporate Office in Eden Prairie, MN.
Relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED