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Distributor Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

JAMS, Inc.

Practice Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

Manages regional practice development and marketing initiatives. Drives outreach to existing and ... Ensures timely creation and distribution of internal and external communications related to ...

Fox

Audience Development Manager

Chicago, IL

$100K - $115K/yr

These stations leverage viewer, distributor and advertiser demand for the FOX Network's national content. FOX 32 is seeking an Audience Development Manager to spearhead the growth and engagement ...

JAMS, Inc.

Practice Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Manages regional practice development and marketing initiatives. Drives outreach to existing and ... Ensures timely creation and distribution of internal and external communications related to ...

Kdfw Fox 4

Audience Development Manager

Chicago, IL

$100K - $115K/yr

These stations leverage viewer, distributor and advertiser demand for the FOX Network's national content. FOX 32 is seeking an Audience Development Manager to spearhead the growth and engagement ...

JAS

Business Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $750K/yr

... distribution, inbound logistics, truckload brokerage and other supply chain management services ... The Business Development Manager (BDM) is responsible for increasing gross profit and market share ...

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Distributor Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$73.7K

$109.7K

How much do distributor development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for distributor development manager in Chicago, IL is $73,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $96,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Distributor Development Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to support distributor growth?

As a Distributor Development Manager, you will frequently work with cross-functional teams such as sales, marketing, supply chain, and customer support to drive distributor performance. This collaboration involves sharing market insights, aligning promotional strategies, coordinating inventory and logistics support, and ensuring consistent messaging to partners. Regular meetings and joint planning sessions are common, allowing you to leverage the expertise of each department and deliver comprehensive solutions to distributors. This teamwork enhances distributor engagement and helps achieve growth targets more efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distributor Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distributor Development Manager, you need expertise in sales management, channel development, and market analysis, often supported by a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Proficiency with CRM systems, sales analytics tools, and distribution management software is typically required. Strong negotiation, relationship-building, and communication skills help foster long-term partnerships and drive distributor performance. These competencies are essential to maximize distribution efficiency, expand market reach, and achieve business growth targets.

What is the difference between Distributor Development Manager vs Sales Representative?

AspectDistributor Development ManagerSales Representative
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field; experience in distribution or salesHigh school diploma or equivalent; sales experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with travel to distributor sitesField-based, visiting clients and customers
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, wholesalers, and distribution companiesRetailers, direct sales companies, and various industries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in distribution channels and developmentSales activities and customer engagement

The Distributor Development Manager focuses on building and maintaining relationships with distribution partners, developing strategies to expand distribution channels, and ensuring distributor performance aligns with company goals. In contrast, a Sales Representative primarily engages directly with customers to sell products and meet sales targets. While both roles involve sales skills, the Distributor Development Manager has a broader strategic and relationship management focus within distribution networks.

What are Distributor Development Managers?

Distributor Development Managers are professionals responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with distributors to drive sales growth and market expansion. They identify potential distributors, provide training and support, and monitor performance to ensure alignment with company goals. Their role often involves developing sales strategies, negotiating contracts, and analyzing market trends to optimize distribution channels. By fostering partnerships and ensuring effective communication, they help maximize product reach and business success.
What are popular job titles related to Distributor Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Distributor Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distributor Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Distributor Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Distributor Development Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Distributor Development Manager job openings:
Distributor Development Manager jobs near you
Business Development Manager - Chicago

Business Development Manager - Chicago

Hotaling & CO.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Company Description
A born and bred San Francisco original, Hotaling & Co. is the leading importer of artisanal spirits and cocktail essentials. Our dedication to artisanal spirits first started 30 years ago under the name Anchor Distilling Company - heralding the return to copper pot distilling in the U.S. with the original craft introductions of Junipero Gin & Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey. We carry on that pioneering legacy with the name Hotaling & Co. as a nod to the local legend A.P. Hotaling, who ventured West during the Gold Rush and quickly became one of the most reputable spirits dealers in the country and a notable figure in American drinking culture. Fueled by a passion for beverage expertise, education and hospitality, Hotaling & Co. carries on this tradition of artisanal excellence by bringing together a family of likeminded spirits that share our commitment to craft and care.
Today, Hotaling & Co.'s portfolio is synonymous with brands of unmatched quality and character, including Luxardo Liqueurs & Cherries, Nikka Whisky, Junipero Gin, HINE Cognac, Convite Mezcal, Kavalan Whisky, Denizen Rum, HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys, Arran Whisky, Old Potrero Rye Whiskey, and more. Visit www.HotalingandCo.com to explore our full range of brands.
Job Description
The Business Development Manager (BDM) is a full-time, exempt position focused on growing the Hotaling & Co. business in both on and off-premise accounts. The primary responsibility of the role is building and managing key account relationships, driving quality distribution in both channels, and achieving the H&Co. annual goals. This role is based in the Chicago Metropolitan area, with a territory covering the state of Illinois.
Please note, this is a hybrid role with a combination of remote work and travel within the territory.
The ideal Business Development Manager will have experience in wine, spirits, and/or hospitality with a strong understanding of the Illinois market. Industry connections and community presence are especially important for success in this role. This person thrives in an autonomous work environment and takes initiative. Most importantly, the ideal candidate for this role is energized by the ever-changing nature of our industry and eager to be engaged in the marketplace.
Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 base, Bonus: up to 25%
Reporting
The BDM reports directly to the Regional Sales Manager.
Key Roles:
Distribution and Key Account Management
  • Accountable for driving high quality distribution of H&Co. brands in identified target accounts
  • Identifying and developing new prospects within assigned territory.
  • Maintain and drive business in key accounts, visiting on an ongoing basis to review H&Co. priorities.
  • Execute events and tastings within account universe to drive sales at account level.
  • Establish expert brand knowledge. Be ready and able to train account staff and ignite passion around H&Co. brands.
  • Secure back-bar distribution, visibility and impactful menu placement plan in target accounts to enhance consumer pull-through and rate-of-sale.
  • Secure displays and optimal shelf placement at retail, identifying opportunities for line extension and multiple facings.
  • Guide accounts in effective merchandising and brand visibility, ensuring brand marketing materials and displays are utilized properly and effectively.
  • Developing and maintaining sustainable records of sales achievements/quotas and an organized list and plan for both on and off-premise accounts.

Relationship Development
  • Build and maintain effective business relationships with the trade, bartending community, distributors, gatekeepers and local market influencers.
  • Collaborate with distributor on brand and sales objectives, through ride-withs, team meetings, and general sales meetings.

Education and Training
  • Conduct product education / samplings, educate store personnel and consumers and complete post sampling recap.
  • Develop and manage spirits master classes for key accounts and consumers, ensuring we are top of mind in the mixology/ bartending community and within our top tier accounts (both on and off-premise).

Events, Activations & Supplier Visits
  • Execute consumer and trade events to generate trial and awareness of our brands, while appropriately integrating brand messaging.
  • Set up and attend brand building promotions such as retailer & consumer samplings, brand launches, cocktail contests, pairings, etc.
  • Host suppliers visiting the market, assisting the RSM in organizing team building events, distributor engagement opportunities and work days in market to visit target accounts.

Local Market Insights
  • Monitor and report competitive activity, brand movement, pricing, and distribution penetration and highlight opportunities to Marketing and Sales team.

Qualifications
Key Requirements and Skills
  • Minimum 3 years experience with proven track record of achievement.
  • 3 years of experience in alcohol sales.
  • High School diploma required
  • Self-starting enthusiasm with can-do attitude.
  • Able to work as part of a team and independently.
  • Willingness to work full-time, non-traditional, late night hours as required and travel throughout assigned territory and occasionally beyond.
  • Must be reliable and possess a high level of work ethic to go above and beyond to accomplish goals.
  • Proven ability to develop relationships and influence others (accounts, bartenders and distributor teams).
  • Passion for artisanal and craft spirits.
  • Resourceful, creative and organized with ability to manage timelines, budgets and event logistics
  • Excellent communication and selling skills (both verbal and written).
  • Strong computer skills, particularly in MS Office Suite
  • Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Physical capabilities necessary to complete duties of the job.

Preferred Skills
  • Recognized credibility in local mixology / bartending community a plus.
  • On and off-premise sales, marketing or promotion experience in the local market.
  • Existing relationships with top accounts in the local market and with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits.

Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision,
  • Car & Cell Phone Allowance
  • FSA, 401k with Match,
  • Life and AD&D, STD, LTD
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Annual National Company Meeting
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Sick and Vacation hours
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Volunteer hours
  • Performance-based Bonus Program

Additional Information
The above statements describe the essential functions and qualifications needed for a Business Development Manager, has been prepared by Hotaling & Co., LLC to use in planning, staffing, budgeting and/or evaluation of employees. It also provides employees with a guide to the duties they are expected to perform. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees in this position. Actual job responsibilities may change at management's discretion, without notice.
Hotaling & Co., LLC is an at-will employer, which means that an employee may resign or Hotaling & Co., LLC may separate an employee from service with or without cause at any time for any reason. There is nothing written in this position description that guarantees continued employment. I have read the above position description and believe that it does accurately define the job.

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