Sales Associate

Looking for a new Challenge in 2026?
Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two hours are the same?
Are you passionate about food and 100% customer-focused?
Based in Marlborough?
Then this might be your role.
As we continue to expand our market presence, we are seeking a results-driven and experienced Sales Associate to join the Service Foods Picton Team. 
This is a big role with a lot of responsibility, but also comes with lots of autonomy, flexibility and freedom to make your mark.
The successful applicant will need to have strong commercial skills and be a master communicator.
If you love a challenge and are able to adapt to constantly changing priorities, whilst still always delivering on your promises, this is the job for you
Responsibilities:
As our Sales Associate, you will be responsible for presenting with confidence strong commercial proposals that demonstrate an in-depth understanding of customer drivers and deliver outcomes that benefit both the Service Foods’ business and that of the customer. 
Some of your key responsibilities are listed below:
Maximising the category supply between Service Foods and the customer, with the objective of total supply in the account.
Working across a wide range of department offerings Foodservice, Butchery and Fresh Produce departments to name a few.
Communicating to branches agreed service delivery levels, preferred supplier arrangements and customer product requirements.
Working with branches to develop capabilities required to deliver committed services.
Maintaining an understanding of best procurement practices and work to support these with customers.
Managing your sales and profitability in line with agreed financial targets.
Liaising with suppliers and negotiating beneficial pricing agreements for key accounts.
Managing and undertaking regular (quarterly or bi-annual) reviews with key accounts, including presentations to customers  
Maintaining system and core documentation to ensure all commitments to customers are correctly reflected in system 
Identifying range gaps and range rationalisation opportunities for the customer, which offer financially sound outcomes for the customer and Service Foods
Immersing yourself into our customers business to understand what their key drivers are and to enable the development of truly beneficial partnerships.
Identifying and documenting the relationship matrix using our Sales Force system
Show casing to our client base that we are an extension to their business.
Requirements:
Our ideal candidate will have 4-5 years of proven sales experience.
To be successful in this role, you must have:
Relevant experience in Food Services, FMCG, or related industries, with a strong background in sales considered highly advantageous
Proven track record of successfully managing national key accounts and achieving sales targets.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with clients and internal teams.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess market trends and develop effective strategies.
A results-oriented mind-set with a commitment to exceeding targets and driving business growth.
Willingness to travel as needed to meet with clients and attend industry events.
What to Expect
At Service Foods, we foster a positive and dynamic work environment.
We are guided by our core values: creativity, resilience, inclusivity, collaboration, work ethic, and humility.
These principles drive our commitment to excellence and team success.
We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
Apply Now
If you are a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with a passion for sales and a background in service foods, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. 
Please apply online along with your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience.
Eligibility: Applicants must have NZ citizenship, residency, or a valid work visa.
Pre-employment Checks: Shortlisted candidates will undergo employment reference checks, Ministry of Justice and ACC verifications, and drug and alcohol testing by an accredited provider.