Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s fast-paced marketplace, the role of the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) salesperson is more critical than ever.

As the retail landscape evolves, the need for skilled professionals who can drive sales, build relationships, and adapt to changing consumer preferences is increasing.

But what exactly does a CPG salesperson do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to profile the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the dynamics of CPG sales,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable CPG salesperson job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Duties and Responsibilities

Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Salespersons are primarily responsible for selling products to retailers, wholesalers, and other organizations.

They work in a range of industries and have extensive knowledge about the product line they are selling.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Understanding the product line and its applications
• Researching and identifying potential customers for the company’s consumer packaged goods
• Presenting and selling company products to current and potential clients
• Preparing presentations, proposals, and sales contracts
• Establishing and maintaining client relationships
• Managing account services through quality checks and other follow-up methods
• Coordinating shipping schedules and delivery of merchandise and services
• Participating in marketing events such as seminars, trade shows, and telemarketing events
• Communicating new product opportunities, special developments, or feedback gathered through field activity to appropriate company staff
• Meeting and exceeding sales targets

 

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dynamic Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Salesperson who is driven and has a solid background in sales.

The CPG Salesperson will be responsible for establishing, developing, and maintaining business relationships with current and prospective customers in the assigned territory/market segment to generate new business for our company’s products.

Our ideal candidate possesses excellent communication skills, a deep understanding of consumer behavior, and a keen ability to understand market trends.

 

Responsibilities

• Establish, develop and maintain positive business and customer relationships
• Reach out to customer leads through cold calling
• Achieve agreed upon sales targets and outcomes within schedule
• Coordinate sales effort with team members and other departments
• Analyze the territory/market’s potential, track sales and status reports
• Supply management with reports on customer needs, problems, interests, competitive activities, and potential for new products and services
• Keep abreast of best practices and promotional trends
• Continuously improve through feedback

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a sales representative
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office
• Familiarity with BRM and CRM practices along with ability to build productive business professional relationships
• Highly motivated and target driven with a proven track record in sales
• Excellent selling, communication and negotiation skills
• Prioritizing, time management and organizational skills
• Ability to create and deliver presentations tailored to the audience needs
• BS/BA degree or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Performance bonus

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson
• Work Environment: This role involves travel to meet clients, with options for remote work when not on the road.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Sales Manager or Regional Sales Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum, plus performance bonus
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Do?

A Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson, often referred to as a CPG Salesperson, typically works for companies that produce tangible goods that are packaged and sold to consumers, such as food, beverages, cosmetics, cleaning products, and more.

The main role of a CPG Salesperson is to promote and sell their company’s products to retailers, wholesalers, and direct to consumers in some cases.

This involves building and maintaining relationships with current and potential clients, negotiating contracts, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

They often work closely with marketing and product development teams to understand the product features, advantages, and benefits to effectively communicate and sell these to potential buyers.

They are responsible for presenting the product, demonstrating how it meets the buyer’s needs, and closing the sale.

In addition, they are also responsible for meeting sales targets, monitoring competitor activities, and staying updated with changes in the consumer market.

They may also need to handle after-sales services such as addressing customer complaints and queries.

CPG Salespersons are often required to travel extensively to meet with clients, attend trade fairs, or conduct product demonstrations.

Their goal is to ensure the maximum visibility and availability of their company’s products in the market.

 

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Qualifications and Skills

A Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson should have a specific set of skills and qualifications to meet the demanding nature of the role, including:

• Excellent negotiation and persuasion skills to make effective sales pitches to potential clients and customers.
• Strong understanding and knowledge of the consumer packaged goods market and trends to make informed sales strategies and decisions.
• Exceptional communication skills to articulate product features, benefits, and pricing in a clear and compelling manner to potential customers.
• Time management and organizational skills to efficiently handle multiple clients, manage sales meetings, and meet sales targets.
• Analytical skills to evaluate sales statistics, identify sales opportunities and forecast future sales trends.
• Customer service skills to build and maintain relationships with clients, address their queries and concerns, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Ability to use sales and customer relationship management software to track sales, manage client relationships, and generate sales reports.

 

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Experience Requirements

Entry-level Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) salespersons may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships, part-time roles, or positions in retail sales or customer service.

They may also have experience in related sectors such as marketing or advertising.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience typically have a proven track record of meeting and exceeding sales targets.

They have likely sharpened their skills in areas like product presentation, negotiation, customer relationship management, and knowledge of consumer behavior.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in CPG sales generally have a deep understanding of the market, have built strong relationships with key industry players, and have demonstrated consistent sales performance.

They may also have some leadership experience, making them qualified for roles such as Sales Manager or Team Leader.

Regardless of the level, a successful CPG salesperson will have experience in understanding consumer needs, trends, and preferences, and will be adept at using this knowledge to drive sales and meet targets.

 

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Education and Training Requirements

A Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Salesperson typically has a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.

They are expected to understand the dynamics of the retail industry and possess strong knowledge of consumer behavior.

CPG salespeople should be proficient in data analysis and have excellent presentation and negotiation skills.

Familiarity with customer relationship management software and other digital tools used in the sales process is a plus.

Some roles may require prior sales experience, particularly within the consumer packaged goods industry.

While not a strict requirement, having a master’s degree in business administration or marketing can enhance a candidate’s job prospects and indicate their potential for leadership roles.

Certification programs in sales or relevant sectors can also be beneficial.

These programs offer specific training on sales strategies, customer service, and product knowledge pertinent to the CPG industry.

Continuing education through seminars, workshops, or courses can showcase a salesperson’s dedication to staying updated on industry trends and innovative sales techniques.

 

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Salary Expectations

A Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson can expect to earn an average salary of $59,690 (USD) per year.

However, this figure may vary based on the individual’s experience, the size of the company they work for, and the region in which they are employed.

Commission-based bonuses, if offered, can also significantly augment a salesperson’s income.

 

Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson need?

A Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson should have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as the role involves dealing with clients on a regular basis.

They should also have a good understanding of the consumer packaged goods industry, be able to analyze market trends, and have excellent negotiation skills.

Organizational abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

 

Do Consumer Packaged Goods Salespeople need a degree?

While a degree is not always a requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, sales, or a related field.

However, relevant work experience, proven sales record, and product knowledge are also highly valued in this role.

 

What should you look for in a Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson resume?

Look for prior experience in sales, particularly in the consumer packaged goods sector.

This can indicate that the candidate has knowledge of the industry and has already developed some client relationships.

A proven track record in meeting sales targets or a history of exceeding these targets is a strong point.

Additionally, check for evidence of strong communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.

 

What qualities make a good Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson?

A good salesperson in this field should be highly motivated, have excellent communication and negotiation skills, and a customer-focused approach.

They should be able to analyze market trends, be proactive about finding and following leads, and have the ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.

Persistence and resilience are also key, as this role can involve dealing with rejection.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson?

Hiring a Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson can be challenging due to the specific industry knowledge required and the need for a track record in sales.

Therefore, it is important to have a comprehensive hiring strategy that includes a clear job description, competitive compensation, and thorough interview processes.

It may also be useful to work with recruiters who specialize in the consumer packaged goods industry.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into what being a Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson is all about.

And guess what?

It’s not just about selling products.

It’s about driving the growth of brands, one sale at a time.

With our handy Consumer Packaged Goods Salesperson job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ticket to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every sale is a part of a bigger journey.

Let’s drive that growth. Together.

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