Customer Development Manager

Who are we

Yamamotoyama U.S.A. stands as a testament to the art of traditional Japanese green tea and nori seaweed products, upholding a commitment to unparalleled quality since 1690. Our culture is enriched by diverse backgrounds, all striving to find their unique voice in a harmonious blend. This spirit of unity in diversity extends to our portfolio, which includes the globally recognized Stash Tea Company, offering an expansive array of premium teas. In addition, we proudly present Ujido, a brand deeply rooted in the art and tradition of Japanese Matcha. Our dedication to excellence is not just in our products, but in the mosaic of voices that shape our legacy.

We Encourage You to Apply:

We understand that not everyone fits perfectly into a list of qualifications. If you are passionate about this role, our product, and our history, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the listed requirements. We value diverse experiences and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.  

1. Summary of Position

The Customer Development Manager is a strategic leader responsible for accelerating profitable growth, expanding market share, and strengthening customer partnerships across Grocery, Mass, Club, and Natural channels. This role owns the development and execution of customer-specific strategies that maximize sales, profit, and trade investment effectiveness while advancing the long-term growth of the Stash and UJIDO brands within the North America tea category. It serves as a key connector between internal functions, broker partners, and retail customers to ensure disciplined execution, strong forecasting, and high-impact go-to-market plans. Grocery, mass, club, and natural are all core channels within the broader multi-outlet landscape.

2. Essential Functions:

• Core Responsibility:

  • Drive gross sales, profit delivery, and trade spend optimization for Grocery, Mass, Club, and Natural accounts.

• Strategic Responsibility:

  • Develop and execute joint business plans with strategic customers to drive distribution, velocity, and category growth.

• Technical Responsibility:

  • Leverage TPM tools to manage forecasting, trade spend, promotions, and scenario planning with rigor and accuracy.

• Operational Responsibility:

  • Partner with Trade Strategy, Analytics, Marketing, and Operations to align pricing, promotion, assortment, and execution plans.

• Collaboration:

  • Direct broker activity with clear priorities, performance expectations, and accountability for in-store and customer execution.

    Perform other duties as needed and directed by management