Retail Support Specialist – this position is based in the Waterbury, CT area and will cover the surrounding territory. Candidates must reside central to the territory covered. This position involves being on the road 5 days per week.

Required: Use of Own Vehicle.

About us

Have you ever thought of working with a fun product, like ice cream? We are passionate about the way we handle and transport our products, and take pride in knowing that what we deliver brings joy to so many people. New England Ice Cream is currently looking for motivated team players to join our team!!

The Retail Support Specialist (RSS) provides coverage when a Territory Sales Representative (TSR) is unavailable to work due to vacation, leave, illness, etc. Using a personal vehicle, the RSS travels to customer sites, takes inventory of what products are needed, and writes orders on the spot for approval. The RSS presents new products and upcoming promotions in order to interest owners/ managers/ buyers and purchasing agents in new and alternative or additional products. This position addresses clients’ questions and concerns and merchandises and cleans areas for products as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Monitors products at the store/location level and provides accurate and timely orders for the customer based on applicable store/chain guidelines, promotional activities, and new product offerings.
• Expedites store resets and displays to all retail accounts for all NEICC food partner brands.
• Maintains manufacturer plan-o-grams, NEICC Merchandising standards, and product rotation.
• Credits product replacement for meltdowns.
• Makes recommendations for improvements on types of equipment to customers.
• Monitors foreign products, the general appearance, and the cleanliness of freezer equipment within the assigned area; clean out ice in preparation for delivery.
• Stays informed on all industry trends; keeps current and increases knowledge of all manufacturers’ programs.
• Possesses complete knowledge of all assigned product lines.
• Keeps current on all new product offerings and product changes within the territories.
• Ensure equipment and displays are properly stocked and cleaned per NEICC standards.
• Maintains a supply of sales offering sheets, POS material, and technical material on all types of freezers.
• Stays current and familiar will all ice cream freezer types; communicates service calls for repair or replacement of equipment.
• Adhere to all management direction, OSHA, DOT, and applicable laws.
• Ability to expedite various field-related projects given by District Sales Manager.
• Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and processes, including Dress Code, Alcohol and Controlled Substance, and Motor Vehicle Records/Vehicle Insurance policies. Must consent to annual Motor Vehicle Records review and submit proof of automobile insurance annually. Must submit to random alcohol and drug screens (for safety-sensitive positions) as necessary.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• HS diploma or equivalent required.
• 1-2 years relevant experience in sales, merchandising, or combined route sales, wholesale driver, and operations experience. 2 years of experience in route sales preferred.
• Project management experience and ability to handle multiple time-sensitive projects and competing priorities.

Skills/Qualifications

• Ability to write orders in a timely fashion. Ability to work weekends and holidays, as needed.
• Proficient in MS Office: Word, Excel & Outlook.
• Proficiency in using technology – handhelds required.
• Proven customer service skills – able to resolve situations in a win-win fashion.
• Strong professional and proven written, verbal and interpersonal English communication skills. Must be able to work effectively and clearly one-on-one. Must be clear and direct over the phone; must be a quick, concise communicator.
• The desired location for the candidate to reside is within the assigned territory.
• Interest and experience in interacting with all levels and departments within a company including expediting the work of field personnel.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and current automobile insurance with the requisite limits required by NEICC.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

New England Ice Cream Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.