Business Development Representative

About Oppy

Grow Our Tomorrow. Oppy is a leading grower, marketer and distributor of fresh produce from around the world. As one of North America’s top produce companies for nearly 165 years, we bring over 100 varieties of produce from 27 countries to 1,300+ retailers in North America and throughout the world. As much as agriculture has shaped the past for humankind, Oppy’s efforts shape its future by sustainably providing families with healthy, safe and fresh produce to create a better quality of life for all. Our progressive team is called to a higher purpose that raises the economic wellbeing of families and communities who work the land.

Recognized as one Canada’s Best Managed Companies (for the last 20 years!) and a Top 100 Employer, our diverse team of dedicated professionals collaborate and make connections across our locations throughout North and South America. We owe our success to our adaptability, innovative and entrepreneurial approach, our commitment to our people, and the incredible relationships we build. We are looking for talented people who love a fast-paced, dynamic environment where you can grow your skills and career in a sector with abundant opportunity. Grow your tomorrow with us, today.

Overview:

Work Model: Hybrid (3-days In-Office, 2-days WFH Flex)
Work Status: Permanent, Full-Time

The Business Development Representative plays a pivotal role in expanding our market presence, driving revenue growth, and nurturing lasting client relationships. We are on the lookout for a highly motivated individual who shares our passion for quality produce and our commitment to supporting growers both locally and globally. In this role, you will be the architect of relationships, armed with a creative and persuasive flair that's second to none. Your financial acumen will be put to the test as you manage budgets with precision. Your talent as a master storyteller will be your guiding light as you engage with industry leaders, nurturing existing partnerships and forging new ones. Collaborating seamlessly with our dynamic sales and marketing teams, you'll be the innovation catalyst, always armed with solutions. Your contributions will be the driving force behind the ongoing growth and development of Oppy's most vital department, ensuring the satisfaction of our retail customers within your dedicated zone. If you're ready to make an important impact and grow with a company that's as dedicated to excellence as you are, then we invite you to join our team and help us cultivate success together.

Accountabilities:

• Provides exceptional customer service to assigned retail, wholesale, and food service accounts, with the aim of expanding Oppy's market presence and brand recognition.
• Cultivates and maintains strong, collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders to drive sales growth and engagement for assigned accounts.
• Proactively assesses customer needs and propose tailored solutions to not only meet but exceed customer expectations, strengthening bonds with key accounts.
• Schedules and actively participates in sales meetings with accounts when necessary, aligning strategies with established sales objectives.
• Offers invaluable business and analytical support to the sales and marketing department, including the preparation and delivery of customer business reviews and category presentations to promote Oppy Brands and products.
• Efficiently coordinates the resolution of issues stemming from meetings, working collaboratively with all relevant parties to craft innovative solutions.
• Collaborates closely with sales representatives and category directors to develop focused and strategic sales and promotional initiatives, as well as comprehensive account plans.
• Contributes to the planning and execution of these initiatives, ensuring alignment with Oppy's overall sales strategy.
• Conducts regular visits to retail customers, providing valuable market intelligence to senior management, category directors, and deal managers on a monthly basis.
• Stays attuned to industry trends and competitor activities, incorporating this knowledge into sales and marketing strategies.
• Serves as a dedicated brand ambassador, upholding and enhancing the positive reputation of Oppy and its affiliated brands.
• Actively promotes the brand's values and mission to external partners, reinforcing Oppy's position as a market leader.

Required Knowledge & Abilities:

• Comprehensive understanding of the principles and methods for promoting and selling products and services, including sales techniques and customer relationship management.
• Strong knowledge of the produce retail, wholesale, and foodservice markets, as well as industry trends, concepts, and standards.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook to manage sales data, presentations, and communications.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective internal and external working relationships with customers, suppliers, and colleagues. Strong desire to exceed customer expectations and promote a customer-focused culture in alignment with the company's core values, guiding principles, and goals.
• Excellent time management and multi-tasking skills, with the ability to set priorities and meet target goals in a fast-paced sales environment.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, remain calm in challenging situations, and make sound decisions to resolve issues.
• Demonstrable integrity and trust in all activities, with the ability to work with a sense of urgency and confidentiality.
• Highly developed written and oral communication skills, including active listening and effective communication of information and ideas through a variety of mediums to diverse audiences.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve issues using sound judgment and creative thinking.
• Willingness to travel as needed to build and maintain customer relationships and meet sales goals.

Required Qualifications:

• Degree, diploma in business with a focus on sales and marketing; specific training in agribusiness or related industry courses is an asset.
• Minimum, 3 – 5 years of successful, proven, and direct selling experience in the produce industry, specifically selling to major accounts preferred.

Why Join Oppy?

We are the perfect size of organization that is still nimble but yet organized, where meaningful impact and contributions happen. We have a strong culture with terrific people that care about the business and each other. We want our people to grow and succeed. We believe in you bringing your best true self and your best ideas, because diverse perspectives contribute to better problem solving and solutions in a dynamic and ever evolving industry. We support your professional development and health with educational reimbursement and wellness programs.

We offer a comprehensive total compensation package that includes health, dental & vision coverage, 401k match, tuition reimbursement and benefits!

Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment

Oppy is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer who actively seeks to recruit retain individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves at work. We care about the uniqueness of our applicants, employees, and partners. Diversity is fundamental to our success because it brings a range of perspectives that fuel innovation and excellence. That's why we're focused on creating an inclusive culture where every employee can contribute their unique talents and ideas.

We gratefully thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted directly.