Market Development Leader I

Join us as a Market Development Leader I (MDL I) and play a key role in expanding our market presence while supporting a network of Independent Operators (IOs) and Master Distributors.

As an MDL I, you'll serve as a strategic partner and trusted resource-translating company initiatives into actionable results on the ground. From guiding merchandising strategies to reinforcing best-in-class service, you'll be on the front lines helping our partners thrive.

What You'll Do

• Act as a liaison between the company and IOs/distributors to share key sales, service, and merchandising strategies
• Build and maintain strong relationships through regular store visits and proactive communication
• Analyze and report weekly volume, inventory, and performance metrics via KPI scorecards
• Develop Sales/IO work plans and support the execution of promotional activities and new product rollouts
• Help facilitate quarterly workshop meetings to align the team and encourage partner success
• Address underperformance by identifying gaps and working with leadership to resolve issues
• Drive in-store execution including resets, display placements, and space expansion
• Operate open routes occasionally and conduct route ride-alongs when requested by IOs
• Support IOs in resolving settlement-related issues and help foster route optimization
• Uphold food safety, workplace safety, and compliance with all company policies and standards

What You Bring

• 5+ years of experience in sales operations-preferably in the snack, grocery, or beverage industries
• A deep understanding of Direct Store Delivery (DSD) models and Independent Distribution Agreements
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Confidence in negotiating, selling, and advising in both formal and informal settings
• Solid organizational skills with attention to detail
• Tech-savvy with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
• A valid driver's license and the ability to obtain a DOT medical card

What Sets You Apart

• You're a self-starter who thrives in fast-paced, field-based environments
• You enjoy solving problems and turning feedback into action
• You can balance independence with team collaboration, always staying focused on shared goals
• You take pride in elevating others through coaching and support

Continuously Pursuing Excellence!

Here at Utz, we have a passion for food that our associates enjoy creating, our customers value selling, and our consumers love eating. Our renowned family of brands includes Utz, Zapp's, Boulder Canyon, and On the Border. We provide a supportive, caring and inclusive environment that offers opportunities for career growth and advancement. We believe it is important to help take care of our associates by providing benefits, resources, and programs that ensure they live their healthiest lives. Our benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, an employer match 401k, profit sharing plan, employee stock purchase plan and much more. Join us and help us become the fastest growing pure-play U.S. snacking company of scale!

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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