Outside Sales Rep- Calgary

Outside Sales Representative

Calgary, AB · Hardy Sales

·        Location: Calgary, AB (field territory)

·        Company: Hardy Sales

·        Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent, Field-Based

·        Pay: CA$70,000 per year base salary, plus commission or bonus

About Hardy Sales

Hardy Sales is a third-generation, family-owned food distributor serving customers in Canada since 1982. We specialize in premium protein products and have built our business through strong relationships with our customers, suppliers and employees.

We are looking for a driven salesperson who enjoys being in front of customers, takes initiative and wants to build a long-term career with us.

About the Role

We are looking for an Outside Sales Representative to sell our meat and other perishable foods to grocery stores, delis, butcher shops, meat processors and foodservice accounts in the Calgary territory. You will look after existing customers and actively prospect for new business to grow territory sales.

This is a field role. You will spend most of your week visiting customers and prospects, building relationships with store owners, meat managers and buyers. You will work closely with our inside sales, purchasing, operations and accounting teams to support your accounts.

Key Responsibilities

Account management

· Manage and grow sales with existing grocery, deli, butcher, processor and foodservice customers.

· Visit accounts regularly to take orders, review product mix and check shelf and case presentation.

· Recommend products, cuts and quantities based on each customer’s sales, season and promotions.

· Present new products, pricing, promotions and seasonal programs to buyers and meat managers.

· Resolve customer issues such as order errors, shortages, credits and quality concerns, working with inside sales, customer service and operations.

Prospecting and new business

· Identify and pursue new accounts, including independent grocers, chains, delis, specialty markets, restaurants and processors.

· Make cold calls, walk-ins and follow-ups to build a steady pipeline of prospects.

· Run product presentations, tastings and samplings to win new customers.

· Prepare quotes and proposals and negotiate pricing within company guidelines.

Territory growth

· Build and follow a territory plan with targets for sales volume, margin and new accounts.

· Track competitor products, pricing and promotions, and share market feedback with management.

· Find opportunities to expand product lines within existing accounts.

· Attend trade shows, industry events and customer meetings as needed.

Reporting and administration

· Keep accurate records of calls, orders, pipeline and customer information in the CRM.

· Submit weekly activity reports and monthly sales forecasts.

· Monitor accounts receivable and help collect past-due balances.

· Follow food safety, product handling and company policies.

· Contribute ideas that improve sales, service and internal processes.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

· Has 2+ years of outside or route sales experience, preferably in meat, food or grocery.

· Has a proven record of prospecting and closing new business.

· Enjoys building relationships and meeting with customers in person.

· Can identify opportunities and negotiate without using a high-pressure sales approach.

· Is self-motivated and organized, able to manage a territory with little supervision.

· Takes ownership of problems and follows through until they are resolved.

· Is comfortable with CRM software, email and Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.

· Has a valid driver’s licence, clean driving record and reliable vehicle.

Assets

· Knowledge of meat cuts, processing, grading and the retail meat department.

· Existing relationships with grocers, delis or processors in the Calgary area.

· Post-secondary education in business, marketing or food science.

· Food safety training or certification.

Working Conditions

· Daily travel within the territory, with occasional overnight trips.

· Regular work in cold environments such as coolers, freezers and processing plants.

· Able to lift up to 50 lb (23 kg) for samples and product.

· Some early mornings, and occasional evenings or weekends for events.

What We Offer

· CA$70,000 per year base salary, plus commission or bonus based on sales and new account growth.

· Vehicle or mileage allowance, phone and expense reimbursement.

· Comprehensive health and dental benefits.

· Paid vacation.

· Sales, product and industry training.

· Opportunities for increased responsibility and internal advancement.

· Stable, family-owned company with more than 40 years of success.

· Supportive, team-oriented work environment.

Benefits: Casual dress, company events, extended health care, paid time off.

Ability to commute/relocate: Calgary, AB – reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required).

How to Apply

Send your resume and a short cover letter describing your sales results to mthompson@hardysales.com.

Application question: In a few sentences, tell us about a new account you won and how you won it, and what you’re looking for in your next opportunity.