Food Service Sales Representative Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of the food industry, the role of a Food Service Sales Representative has never been more crucial.

As the food industry continues to evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can effectively sell, manage, and foster relationships within this market grows exponentially.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a Food Service Sales Representative?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the nuances of food service sales,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Food Service Sales Representative job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Food Service Sales Representative Duties and Responsibilities

Food Service Sales Representatives are responsible for marketing, selling, and distributing food products, often to businesses such as grocery stores, restaurants, and cafeterias.

They may work directly for food manufacturers or for food distribution companies.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Identify potential clients, initiate contact, and cultivate relationships
• Present and sell company food products to new and existing clients
• Offer product samples and demonstrations to introduce products and attract new customers
• Collaborate with culinary teams or chefs to tailor products to clients’ needs
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and prices with clients
• Collect and process customer orders efficiently
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity
• Provide customer feedback to company management and product development teams
• Coordinate deliveries and resolve any issues related to deliveries or product quality
• Attend food service industry trade shows and events to network and promote products

 

Food Service Sales Representative Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a motivated and outgoing Food Service Sales Representative to join our dynamic sales team.

Your responsibilities will include creating and maintaining a positive relationship with our food service customers, promoting our products, and driving growth in sales.

Our ideal candidate has a passion for food, a keen understanding of the food service industry, and excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Familiarity with customer service and experience in a sales role is a must.

Ultimately, the role of the Food Service Sales Representative is to increase our company’s revenue by maintaining fruitful relationships with customers and meeting or exceeding sales targets.

 

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 CRM practices along with the 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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Food Service Sales Representative
• Work Environment: Office setting with significant travel to client locations. Expect frequent travel within assigned sales territory.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Sales Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• 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 Food Service Sales Representative Do?

Food Service Sales Representatives work primarily in the food and beverage industry, liaising between food producers, wholesalers and retail businesses.

Their primary role is to promote and sell food products or services to various food establishments such as restaurants, hotels, cafes, and supermarkets.

They maintain a good relationship with existing clients, monitor their needs and preferences, and also seek out new clients through cold calling, networking, and customer referrals.

These representatives are knowledgeable about the products they sell, and they conduct product demonstrations and tastings to promote their products effectively.

They may also negotiate contracts and sales agreements, addressing any issues or queries the client may have about the product.

They are often responsible for meeting sales targets and increasing the company’s revenue through effective sales strategies and excellent customer service.

Food Service Sales Representatives also monitor market trends, competitor products, and customer behavior to identify opportunities and key selling propositions.

 

Food Service Sales Representative Qualifications and Skills

Food Service Sales Representatives require a unique combination of skills and qualifications to successfully promote and sell products to the food service industry.

These include:

• Strong knowledge of food industry trends, products, and customer needs to provide valuable recommendations and solutions to clients.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively present products, negotiate deals, and foster strong relationships with customers.
• Sales skills to identify potential sales opportunities, close deals and meet or exceed sales targets.
• Customer service skills to handle inquiries, complaints, and provide after-sales support, ensuring customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple accounts, schedules, sales reports, and administrative tasks efficiently.
• Problem-solving skills to address customer issues, handle objections, and find win-win solutions to customer challenges.
• Physical stamina to handle the demands of travel, presentations, and carrying product samples.
• Familiarity with CRM software and Microsoft Office to maintain client records, track sales, and analyze data.

 

Food Service Sales Representative Experience Requirements

For entry-level Food Service Sales Representative positions, employers typically require 1 to 2 years of experience in a customer service or sales role.

This could include experience gained through internships, part-time jobs, or in roles such as Retail Associate or Customer Service Representative.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often expected to have a deeper understanding of the food service industry and sales processes.

This experience can be gained in roles like Food Service Manager, Catering Sales Coordinator, or in a previous Food Service Sales Representative position.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are considered senior-level candidates.

These professionals are often expected to have a history of successful sales, a strong network within the food industry, and possibly some leadership experience.

At this level, they may be ready to take on larger territories, handle key accounts, or move into a managerial or team lead position.

In addition, a background or certification in food science, nutrition, or a related field may be beneficial for understanding the products being sold.

A strong knowledge of industry trends, health and safety regulations, and the ability to build relationships with clients are also important aspects of this role.

 

Food Service Sales Representative Education and Training Requirements

Food Service Sales Representatives typically have a high school diploma or equivalent education.

A bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field is a plus, but not always a necessity.

They must have an understanding of the foodservice industry and knowledge of various food products.

This can be obtained through hands-on experience working in restaurants, catering, or other foodservice establishments.

Food Service Sales Representatives should have excellent communication and negotiation skills, and it is beneficial to have experience in a sales role, particularly within the foodservice sector.

Although not required, some representatives may choose to pursue certification programs such as Certified Professional Foodservice Representative (CPFR), which can enhance their credibility and indicate their dedication to the profession.

Continuing education and training through workshops, trade shows, or seminars is also advantageous to stay updated with industry trends and new products.

 

Food Service Sales Representative Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Food Service Sales Representative is $59,122 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary significantly based on factors such as level of experience, geographical location, and the size and type of the employing company.

 

Food Service Sales Representative Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Food Service Sales Representative need?

A Food Service Sales Representative should have strong communication and customer service skills to effectively interact with clients.

They should also have negotiation and persuasion skills, as a large part of their role involves selling products or services.

Additionally, they should be detail-oriented and possess strong analytical skills to manage orders and track sales trends.

 

Do Food Service Sales Representatives need a degree?

While a degree is not always required for this role, some employers prefer candidates with a degree in marketing, business, or a related field.

Regardless of academic background, experience in sales or the food service industry can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Food Service Sales Representative resume?

Look for a proven track record in sales, preferably in the food service industry.

Evidence of strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) software, is also beneficial.

Depending on your company’s needs, you may also look for experience with specific types of products or services.

 

What qualities make a good Food Service Sales Representative?

A successful Food Service Sales Representative is persistent, outgoing, and excellent at building relationships.

They must also be self-motivated, as they often work independently.

Attention to detail is crucial to manage orders and track sales trends accurately.

A good representative also stays up-to-date on industry trends and the latest products to provide the best service and advice to clients.

 

Is it difficult to hire Food Service Sales Representatives?

Finding the right Food Service Sales Representative can be challenging.

This role requires a unique combination of sales acumen, knowledge of the food service industry, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Moreover, the representative must align with the company’s culture and values.

However, with a well-structured interview process and clear job description, you can find a representative who not only meets the job requirements but also adds value to your team.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve served you the full course on what it truly means to be a food service sales representative.

And guess what?

It’s not just about selling food products.

It’s about feeding the appetites of businesses and consumers, one sale at a time.

With our specially prepared food service sales representative job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to carve your career path.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating mouth-watering listings or garnishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every sale contributes to the overall success of your food service.

Let’s cook up that success. Together.

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