Key Account Specialist, Walmart

At Lindt, we are a global fast-growing consumer goods company, enchanting the world with premium chocolate. We are driven by our passion for excellence and go the extra mile ensuring that every Lindt experience is nothing short of exceptional. Our collective efforts are geared towards making a positive impact, not only in the world of premium chocolate but also in the lives of our employees, customers, and communities. Our company embraces a culture defined by the core values of Excellence, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Responsibility, and Collaboration, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment where these principles drive our success.

Position Purpose:

The Walmart Key Account Specialist will work closely with the National Account Manager(s) on the Lindt Sales team to support the execution of strategic seasonal programs for Walmart. They will conduct sales analysis, provide customer support for Walmart accounts, and collaborate with the team to ensure alignment with Walmart's needs, company sales objectives, and profitability targets. The Walmart Key Account Specialist will focus on driving sales growth through effective item allocation, seasonal program management, and pallet/display allocations.

Sales & Account Management

• Curate Walmart Merchant-directed needs for Walmart Layout Center (LOC) by season to ensure planogram and modular integrity
• Directly sell item allocation into Walmart for each season, collaborating with the National Account Manager and Walmart Merchants
• Manage seasonal allocation process, including oversight of 3rd party execution, review, refine, and approve recommendations, submit to Walmart according to customer requirements, audit actuals and analyze outcomes
• Own the Trade Promotion Management (TPM) process for seasonal programs, ensuring accurate planning, execution, and analysis of promotional activities to drive sales and profitability
• Develop compelling selling stories for the Walmart seasonal business to drive sales and support the National Account Manager in presentations
• Provide sales and promotional recommendations to the National Account Manager(s) based on thorough sales and trend analysis
• Utilize Walmart Scintilla and other relevant tools to deliver in-depth analysis and actionable insights, supporting sustained Lindt seasonal growth at Walmart
• Monitor customer profitability and analyze monthly trade spending through customer P&L analysis, ensuring overall profitability
• Participate in strategic, multi-year seasonal planning with key Brand team partners
• Collaborate with Walmart's inventory/logistics teams and internal customer service to ensure alignment on ordering and replenishment recommendations

Qualifications & Requirements:

Experience:

• 4+ years of retail supplier experience, with a strong understanding of Walmart's business practices and requirements
• Proven track record of driving sales growth and supporting key accounts

Skills & Knowledge:

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Walmart Scintilla, and other relevant tools
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• In-depth knowledge of the CPG industry and market trends

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Other Requirements:

• This role is located in the Lindt Bentonville, AR office and is not a remote position
• Occasional travel to Stratham, NH and business meetings/market visits required