Sales Lead

Job Title: Sales Lead – Astronaut Foods

Location: Boulder, CO (Hybrid)

About the Brand:

Astronaut Foods has been a pioneer in the freeze-dried food space since 1974, delivering innovative and fun products inspired by the wonders of space exploration. From the original freeze-dried ice cream to a wide array of out-of-this-world snacks, we are a brand rooted in curiosity, exploration, and delight. Based in Boulder, Colorado, we are committed to crafting unique, high-quality products that spark imaginations and bring the thrill of space to everyone’s snacking experience. At Astronaut Foods, we believe in creating memorable moments, one bite at a time.

What You Will Do:

As the Sales Lead for Astronaut Foods, you will lead growth efforts in the Specialty Channel by creating and executing strategic sales plans. Your focus will be on nurturing relationships with key accounts, developing new partnerships, and working closely with brokers and retail partners to expand the reach of our iconic products. A key part of your role will be assessing and optimizing sales processes and systems to ensure we remain effective and competitive. You will also collaborate with internal teams to align on sales goals and contribute to building a brand that continues to delight customers and retailers alike.

Key Responsibilities:

- Develop and implement sales strategies and forecasts for the Specialty Channel.

- Proactively identify and pursue new sales opportunities, building a pipeline of prospective accounts to grow Astronaut Foods’ market presence.

- Build strong, lasting relationships with retail partners to drive sales and achieve revenue goals.

- Collaborate with brokers and representatives to maximize brand visibility and sales performance.

- Lead trade show planning, staffing, and sampling initiatives.

- Monitor and improve sales processes and systems to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

- Ensure timely and accurate processing of orders and account setup.

- Provide market feedback to leadership, marketing, and product development teams to inform future strategies.

- Stay up to date on industry trends and provide regular sales insights and performance updates to leadership.

- Travel to meet with retail partners, attend trade shows, and support account initiatives as needed.

Who You Are:

You are an energetic, adaptable person with an entrepreneurial spirit. You enjoy collaboration as part of a high-performing team, and you are inclined to work independently and take ownership of your responsibilities in your area of expertise. You thrive in dynamic environments where there is always something to be done, priorities may shift, and new challenges consistently arise. You can capably develop and implement systems and processes, but you are most excited about working with people. You are a relationship builder with a persuasive communication style and an optimistic demeanor.

Qualifications:

- At least 5 years of experience in sales, preferably in the specialty food or consumer packaged goods industry.

- Strong understanding of Astronaut Foods’ products, and competitive landscape.

- Familiarity with specialty retail dynamics and trends in the food/snack industry.

- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

- Strong analytical mindset and ability to problem-solve independently.

- Highly organized with meticulous attention to detail.

- High school diploma required; college degree preferred.

- Ability to work from our Boulder office four days per week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays).

Compensation & Benefits:

- Salary: $75-80K per year, plus eligibility for Sales Incentive.

- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

- Unlimited paid time off.

- Paid holidays.

- 401(K) retirement plan.

- Employee profit-sharing program.

- Product stipend and access to industry deals.

AOP is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Our commitment to equal opportunity applies to all aspects of employment.