Joto Sake Regional Manager - Kobrand Corporation

We are seeking a dynamic, highly motivated and goal-oriented Joto Sake Regional Manager to be based in the greater Houston, Texas market. This individual will be responsible for growing the Joto Sake and Japanese Spirits Portfolio in key accounts, working with suppliers, and distributor sales representatives, conducting special events, education, and executing corporate market initiatives.    

The duties and responsibilities of the position include the following (other duties may be assigned as needed):

• 50% focus on Texas: develop relationships and business with key accounts; educate and support the Kobrand and distributor sales teams
• 40% regional sales: adhere to annually developed travel priorities; adjust schedule to local schedules, plan visits with local teams; work markets; develop local account relationships, and follow-up to close on sales
• 10% administration and support
• Meet demand for and propose on/off-premise promotional events
• Conduct sake tastings, dinners, and training/educational seminars for consumers and trade
• Review monthly account performance
• Identify market trends and opportunities and propose action plans to supervisor
• Manage individual quota for depletions, placements and qualitative efforts
• Host and help to plan supplier trips to the territory

• Minimum three years’ experience in sake, wine, spirits and/or beer sales (Sommelier, Supplier, Distributor), with account and territory management
• Must have proven track record in developing new business, managing existing accounts, calling and maintaining business relationships
• Strong computer skills are a must (Excel, Outlook, Word, Canva, Social Media, PowerPoint)
• Passion and knowledge of sake and the sake/wine industry (WSET, CSW, SSI, SPC, JSA a plus)
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong relationship-building skills with a proactive, efficient approach
• Exceptional follow-up, organizational, problem-solving and closing skills
• Professional and personable demeanor with strong oral and written communication skills
• High integrity, responsibility, and commitment to doing the right things for the right reasons
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage all job responsibilities, including those outside of comfort zones
• Comprehensive knowledge of products, the sake/wine industry, competitive markets, and customer needs

Physical Requirements

• Must be 21 years of age
• Possession of a valid driver’s license is required
• Must be able to comfortably lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to walk, stand, climb, balance, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, or crouch daily
• Must be able to travel, including overnight trips, up to 40% of the time 

Kobrand Corporation offers a competitive salary, a performance-based bonus and comprehensive benefits package.