Director, US Foodservice/Out of Home

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Director, Out of Home

Job Status: Full-time, permanent

Work location: Remote, USA

Travel: 70%

Your Role

This is an exciting opportunity to drive revenue and expand market share for the LIPTON US Foodservice/Out of Home (OOH) Business by leading a full Channel Team and Broker network. Primary focus will be placed on acquisition of Regional and National Chains, the Non-Commercial segment and growing out of home segments.  This role will also oversee Lipton’s iced tea equipment program and channel analytics. The Director of Foodservice will inspire and develop a Team of highly engaged National AccountManagers, Regional Sales Managers, Business Managers and cross functional partners who will drive the end-to-end value proposition for LIPTON Tea with existing and new Out of Home customers.

Your key responsibilities:

• Manage the foodservice/out of home business end-to-end, reporting to the Chief Customer Officer of North America
• Lead and develop a team of sales and business development leaders (RSMs, Non-Commercial, Distribution, Marketing and Strategy, Equipment and Analytics)
• Broker relationship management: setting annual growth targets and expectations and fostering relationships with leadership
• Be the “voice of the Out of Home” on leadership and cross-functional calls, ensuring the channel and needs of the Team are well represented
• Oversee P&L, trade budgets and financial performance ensuring alignment to company targets
• Develop and implement sales strategy and business plans to support overall company KPIs
• Create executive-level presentations for both internal and external business reviews
• Identify opportunities for process improvement in trade systems and operating processes and implement project management plans for enhancement
• Provide on-going coaching, training and development opportunities for the team to encourage professional and personal growth
• Oversee Distributor and National Account programs, providing guidance and support to the Team as needed
• Engage with top distributors and foodservice customers for business reviews, and trade budget planning
• Oversee an annual channel sales forecast and provide updates to senior leadership on progress, challenges, and opportunities
• Oversee strategic partnerships to support and grow the Out of Home business
• Cultivate cross-functional relationships outside of the customer organization (R&D, Brand Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance)

Skills and experience:

• 15+ years’ work experience in Foodservice or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry with a focus on Customer Account Management 
• Bachelor’s degree in business, or a related field, MBA preferred 
• Deep understanding of foodservice operations and route to market (National Broker network, Broadline Distribution, Re-distribution, GPOs/other contracted business, National Chains, etc.) required

• Hands-on strategy work including performing discovery activities, research, assessment of the industry and KPI development
• Proven track record of managing high-performing teams, managing key accounts, and driving sales growth
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, forecasting, and analyzing sales performance metrics
• Proficiency using CRM systems, sales analytics tools, industry insight platforms (NPD, Circana, etc.)
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance short-term results with long-term goals
• Ability to multitask and problem solve

A Great Place to Grow 

Here at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we grow a world of wellbeing to generate value for all. 

• Grow your LEADERSHIP – Thought leader or people leader, we want to help you to truly realise your potential. With a strong internal nurturing network and a focus on your development, you can grow your leadership with us. When you grow, the world around you will grow.
• Grow your VALUE - To foster your learning, we offer big, fulfilling roles within an empowering and entrepreneurial climate. You will have the space to take ownership and to make your mark – and you will be rewarded for the value that you create.
• Grow your IMPACT – We are unique in our industry - from our tea estates to our factories, labs and offices, we innovate sustainably and drive value for all. We grow a world of wellbeing, from seed to sip. You can truly leave your mark on our company and on the planet -through the meaningful work that you do. 

Benefits & Perks 

• Comprehensive insurance plans - health, dental + disability and life Insurance
• 401(k) with 5% company matching + an extra 4% after your first year
• Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Accounts
• 3 weeks paid vacation, 10 company holidays, 3 floating holidays, and 3 volunteer days to give back
• Parental Leave - Primary & Secondary
• Learning and development reimbursement

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is an organization committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. We are interested in every individual bringing their whole self to work and this includes you! Therefore if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.