Specialty/Import Sales Specialist at Sysco: A Career Overview

Are you passionate about specialty foods and imports? Do you thrive in a sales environment where you can build relationships and drive growth? If so, a career as a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist at Sysco might be the perfect fit for you. This role is crucial to Sysco's success in the specialty food market, focusing on developing new business and enhancing customer experiences within this unique segment.

Role Overview

As a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist, you'll be responsible for growing Sysco's business within the specialty and import food segment in the Pennsylvania region. This involves developing and executing targeted sales strategies, identifying customer needs, and providing solutions through Sysco's extensive product offerings. Your success will be measured by your ability to achieve assigned business goals while enhancing the customer experience.

This role requires a strong understanding of the specialty food market, excellent sales skills, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams. You'll be working closely with European Imports, specialty manufacturers, and the broker community to provide the best possible products and services to your customers.

A Day in the Life of a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist

No two days are exactly the same, but here’s a glimpse into what a typical day might look like:

• Morning: Review sales data and market trends to identify potential opportunities. Prepare for customer meetings and presentations.
• Mid-day: Visit customer locations to assess their needs and present product solutions. Conduct product sampling and demonstrations.
• Afternoon: Follow up with customers on orders and inquiries. Collaborate with internal teams to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Evening: Attend industry events or networking opportunities to build relationships and stay informed of market trends.

Why Philadelphia, Allentown & Harrisburg?

The Pennsylvania region, specifically Philadelphia, Allentown and Harrisburg, represent a key market for Sysco’s specialty and import business. These cities boast a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, with a high demand for unique and high-quality food products. This creates a dynamic and rewarding environment for a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist to thrive.

Philadelphia's rich history and diverse population contribute to a unique food culture. Allentown, located in the Lehigh Valley, is experiencing rapid growth and offers a diverse customer base. Harrisburg, as the state capital, provides opportunities to engage with a wide range of businesses and institutions.

Career Path

Sysco is committed to employee growth and development. A successful Specialty/Import Sales Specialist can advance through various career paths within the company. Some potential career paths include:

• Senior Sales Specialist: Lead and mentor a team of Sales Specialists.
• Sales Manager: Oversee a team of Sales Specialists and manage sales performance in a specific region.
• Category Manager: Manage a specific product category and develop strategies to drive sales growth.
• National Account Manager: Manage relationships with key national accounts and develop strategies to grow Sysco's business with these customers.

Salary & Benefits

Sysco offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its employees. The salary for a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist in the Pennsylvania region typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience and performance. Specific compensation will be discussed during the interview process.

In addition to salary, Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan, and employee stock purchase plan. These benefits are designed to support employees' physical, financial, and emotional well-being.

Sysco Culture

Sysco is a company that values its employees and is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment. Sysco's core values include integrity, teamwork, excellence, and customer focus. The company is committed to diversity and inclusion and provides equal opportunities to all employees.

Sysco also emphasizes employee development and provides opportunities for employees to learn and grow through training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement opportunities.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for the Specialty/Import Sales Specialist position at Sysco, please visit the Sysco careers website. You can search for open positions by location and job title. The application process typically involves submitting a resume and cover letter, completing an online application, and participating in interviews.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist? Growing new business within the Specialty/Import segment, achieving assigned business goals, and enhancing the customer experience.
2. What qualifications are required for this position? High School Diploma or GED and 3+ years of sales experience within a retail, broker, wholesale or distribution environment with deep expertise in Specialty/Import categories.
3. What is the salary range for this position? The salary range is estimated to be $70,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience and performance.
4. What benefits does Sysco offer? Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan, and an employee stock purchase plan.
5. What is the career path for a Specialty/Import Sales Specialist? Potential career paths include Senior Sales Specialist, Sales Manager, Category Manager, and National Account Manager.
6. What is the company culture like at Sysco? Sysco values its employees and is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment with core values including integrity, teamwork, excellence, and customer focus.
7. How do I apply for this position? Visit the Sysco careers website and search for open positions by location and job title.
8. What is the work environment like? This role requires both office work and travel to customer sites within the Pennsylvania region.
9. What is the importance of Salesforce in this role? Salesforce is Sysco's CRM tool, used to track activities, results, collaborate on opportunities, and champion the team selling process.
10. What kind of training is provided for this role? Sysco and European Imports provide continual education opportunities to enhance product knowledge and sales skills.