Regional Sales Manager - Central

Regional Sales Manager Heartland Food Products Group | U.S. Field-Based (Central/Midwest)We are seeking a Regional Sales Manager (RSM) to lead a hybrid direct and national sales agency model within an assigned region. This role is accountable for delivering regional KPIs through a combination of direct retailer engagement and sales agency leadership, and serves as the primary face of Heartland for regional retailer calls and field-level relationships.This role requires a confident, externally facing sales leader who can influence retailers directly, set clear direction for agency partners, and translate national strategy into consistent in-market results.What You’ll DoRetailer Leadership & Direct Customer EngagementServe as the primary Heartland representative for regional retailer calls and field-level customer relationshipsLead retailer meetings focused on execution, distribution, merchandising, promotions, and issue resolutionReinforce Heartland’s brand strategies, selling stories, and expectations directly with retail partnersSales Agency LeadershipDirect and lead Heartland’s national sales agency partner within the assigned regionSet clear priorities, expectations, and KPIs for agency teamsEnsure strong alignment between Heartland and agency leadership on goals, programs, and execution standardsDrive accountability through regular performance reviews, market visits, and ride-alongsExecutional Excellence & KPI DeliveryOwn regional execution KPIs including distribution, shelving, pricing, displays, voids, promotional compliance, and resetsEnsure flawless execution of innovation launches, seasonal programs, and national initiativesValidate in-store performance through store audits, field feedback, and data analysisPerformance Tracking, Reporting & InsightsOwn regional scorecards and dashboards tied to defined KPIsAnalyze execution data and retailer feedback to identify trends, risks, and opportunitiesCommunicate clear, actionable insights and corrective actions to internal stakeholders and agency partnersCross-Functional PartnershipAct as the field execution liaison between retailers, sales agencies, and internal teams (National Accounts, Marketing, Category Management, Supply Chain)Provide field input into customer strategies, innovation readiness, and go-to-market planningEnsure agency and field readiness for new items, resets, and promotional programsTraining, Communication & Capability BuildingLead onboarding and ongoing training for agency teams on Heartland’s brands, tools, and prioritiesDeliver consistent communication to the field, reinforcing focus and executional disciplineShare best practices and wins across regionsWhat You BringRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree required7+ years of CPG sales or field sales leadership experienceProven experience operating in a hybrid direct / sales agency modelStrong capability and confidence leading direct retailer calls and representing the manufacturerDeep understanding of retail execution, selling fundamentals, and KPI managementAbility to influence, align, and drive results without sole reliance on direct authorityWillingness to travel extensively within assigned regionPreferred ExperienceExperience supporting national brand portfolios across multiple retail channelsFamiliarity with retail execution tools, store audit platforms, and field reporting systemsExperience partnering closely with National Account Managers and category teamsKey CompetenciesStrong external presence and customer credibilityClear, decisive leader with an accountability mindsetExecution-focused with high attention to detailData-driven problem solver who turns insights into actionCollaborative partner who builds trust with retailers, agencies, and internal teams