Kinsa is recruiting for an: Account Manager / Sales Operations Manager
Location: Western Chicago Suburbs, IL (Onsite)
Our client is a vertically integrated co-manufacturer, seeking an Account Manager / Sales Operations Manager to manage and grow Contract Manufacturing and Private Label accounts. You will serve as primary customer liaison and coordinate with Production, Supply Chain, Quality, R&D, and Finance to ensure seamless execution and profitable growth.
- Relevant college degree. 7+ years of sales operations and account management experience, in a CPG co-manufacturing setting. Note that this is not simply a sales position, and requires the full breadth of experience in this job post.
Compensation & Benefits:
- $120-150k base salary
- Medical, Dental, Vision
- 401(k)
- PTO & holiday pay
Key Responsibilities and Goals:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned Contract Manufacturing and Private Label customers.
- Manage customer contracts (documentation, compliance, key terms/dates, operational requirements) and build long-term relationships that drive retention and growth.
- Lead day-to-day account operations; align customer requirements with internal capabilities. Identify upsell/cross-sell opportunities and manage pricing discussions, renewals, and contract terms.
- Maintain pricing structures and coordinate pricing changes with Sales, Finance, and Operations; support AR follow-ups on past-due invoices, deductions, and payments.
- Resolve customer issues and escalate as needed. Deliver account reviews, forecasts, and reporting; monitor performance (revenue, growth, OTIF, margin). Coordinate forecasts, production schedules, and inventory plans with internal teams.
- Maintain accurate records in CRM/ERP systems and ensure compliance with company policies and contractual obligations. Update cost cards and contract amendments for new items as needed.
- Act as the customer advocate, balancing customer needs with operational capabilities. Prepare business cases, trial agreements/invoices, and other required documentation for new business.
- Manage customer-driven product changes (raw materials and packaging) through completion.
- Lead commercialization of new products and manufacturing lines in partnership with R&D, Quality, and Operations.
Competencies Needed for Success:
- Bachelor’s degree (Business, Operations Management, or related preferred).
- 7+ years in CPG sales operations/account management; strong operations, logistics, and project management skills.
- Experience in food-related manufacturing/co-manufacturing highly preferred.
- Proficient with CRM, ERP, and operational management tools.
- Strong math and accounting aptitude.
- Bilingual preferred.
Referrals are our best source for the top talent our clients need so if you know of anyone with these skills in the food and beverage industry, please pass me their name and email/phone number, or share this job posting with them. Kinsa pays referral bonuses if someone you refer gets hired by our client!
Check out our other food and beverage industry career opportunities at https://www.kinsa.com/food-beverage-industry-jobs/#!/
