State Account Manager - Independents (SA/WA/TAS)
About the role: This role will be working for our Mars Wrigley segment. You'll drive profitable sales growth by leading business plans, managing P& L, and building strong customer and stakeholder relationships to deliver optimized trade performance and sustainable, mutually beneficial growth.
Role Title: State Account Manager (also referred to as Customer Development Manager – Independents)
Location: Melbourne, with travel required to customers in SA, WA, and TAS.
Hours: Full time, permanent role.
Reporting to: National Account Manager (Customer Development Leader – Independents).
What You'll Do
Drive growth across Australia's most iconic independent retailers – owning strategy, plans, and performance across Drakes, Foodland, Romeos, Tasmanian Independent Retailers, and the Metcash state offices in SA and WA.
Turn customer and market insights into shopper‐centric plans that spark mutual growth and outsmart competitors.
Lead winning customer solutions – from assortment and merchandising to pricing, promo and new product launches – ensuring each plan lands with impact.
Own forecasting with precision, continuously improving demand drivers and supply signals.
Build powerful cross‐functional partnerships, teaming with Customer Marketing and the Independents team to shape strategy and deliver standout results.
Manage customer P& L and trade investment with confidence, ensuring smooth day‐to‐day execution and long‐term sustainable growth.
Preferably degree qualified or with equivalent experience.
Strong sales experience, preferably managing customers within the Independents channel for FMCG businesses.
Ability to influence cross‐functionally and build effective customer relationships.
Fluent understanding of forecasting, Nielsen and trade spend management.
Desire to grow your career with Mars; this role is a stepping stone into more senior trading roles within the Sales team.
Why You'll Love Working For Mars
Purpose: Help craft beloved brands with a legacy of over 100 years of local manufacturing, building a more sustainable future.
People: A culture that values contributions, fosters leadership, and recognises impact.
Development: Shape your career with personalised development and real opportunities to grow from day one.
Enjoy a team and business environment that supports work‐life balance.
Key Qualifications & Requirements
Degree qualification or equivalent experience.
Relevant sales experience, preferably within the Independents channel for FMCG.
Strong cross‐functional influence and relationship‐building skills.
Proficiency in forecasting, Nielsen data, and trade spend management.
Strong communication and presentation skills.
Seniority Level, Employment Type & Industry
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Sales and Business Development
Industry: Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Mars is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. No applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request. We are committed to an accessible and supportive application process for all candidates. #J-18808-Ljbffr
