Account Executive/Business Development, Forestwood
Location: Auburn, AL
Reports to: Sales leadership
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are the premier southeast‑based food service distributor serving restaurants, hospitality, retail, and wholesale customers. Our mission is to be the trusted local bridge between farm and fork, delivering the freshest produce with flexibility, integrity, and genuine care for the communities we serve. At Forestwood we give chefs and institutions a local partner they can count on, combining fresh, high-quality produce with the pricing and flexibility that make a real difference to their operation. You will be building and executing the strategy that drives profitable growth across [VERTICAL] channels.
KEY THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THIS ROLE
You’ll collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams including key internal stakeholders, marketing, and sales operations to drive strategic growth and deliver an exceptional customer experience.
You will own the full sales cycle, from cultivating new business to retaining ongoing clients, expanding customer penetration, and driving proactive, solution‑oriented engagement.
You’ll contribute as a growth‑oriented, relationship‑driven team member within a mission‑driven organization where leadership empowers proactive decision‑making and collaboration to shape the future of food.
You are being hired to accelerate strategic growth, deepen client retention, and expand Forestwood’s market reach through high‑impact business development and customer‑centric solutions.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Growth & Planning
- Develop and implement a strategic growth plan aligned with company goals.
- Set and pursue professional development objectives to advance business outcomes.
- Achieve competitive and financially sound business performance.
New Business Development
- Cultivate new business opportunities across diverse customer segments.
- Attend conferences, meetings, and industry events to expand networks.
- Partner with marketing for new initiatives to attract prospects.
Client Relationship Management
- Retain clients with ongoing purchases through proactive engagement.
- Shepherd client onboarding and act as a customer advocate.
- Build collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Sales Execution & Account Expansion
- Increase customer penetration using the company’s product and service portfolio.
- Manage the full sales cycle with solution‑oriented practices.
- Deliver presentations that drive profitable sales.
Tools, Systems, & Operational Excellence
- Learn and leverage Forestwood’s full suite of products and services.
- Use CRM and digital tools to manage activity and track opportunities.
- Maintain strong time-management and prioritization to support execution
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
This role includes periodic travel for customer visits within your territory scope, conferences, meetings, and industry events.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE IN 1 YEAR
- You consistently generate new business that expands Forestwood’s footprint in priority markets.
- Your client portfolio demonstrates strong retention, satisfaction, and contract renewal.
- Customers show measurable increases in penetration
- You are recognized internally as a proactive problem‑solver and trusted customer advocate.
- CRM and sales processes are maintained with accuracy, transparency, and high activity levels.
- You contribute meaningfully to cross‑functional collaboration and internal communication.
- You are a visible ambassador at industry events and market‑facing initiatives.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree or 3 to five years of related professional experience in food/hospitality, service and/or sales.
- Ability to develop and deliver presentations that will attract profitable sales.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experience in planning and implementing sales strategy.
- Proven experience in customer relationship management.
- Excellent time management and prioritization skills.
- Proficient Microsoft Office packages.
- Experience with CRM or any other cloud-based programs recommended.
- Tech savvy and is up to date with current marketing strategies utilizing social media outlets and trends.
CULTURE EXPECTATIONS
- Seek and apply feedback.
- Communicate clearly and maintain professionalism.
- Influence cross‑functionally.
- Demonstrate sound business judgment.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Auburn, AL 36830
