Food Distribution Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

About Carbonella & DeSarbo

Carbonella & DeSarbo (C&D) is a private equity–backed fresh food distribution business, operating in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment where execution, accuracy, and operational discipline are critical.   We work hard to connect our customers with the freshest, high-quality produce and specialty products available. We believe in providing our customers with the highest level of customer service, superior quality produce, at or below fair market value, 365 days a year servicing locations in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, and New Jersey.  We place great emphasis on maintaining the highest food safety standards and making our company a place that both our customers and employees love and trust. 

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Wholesale Produce Sales Manager to lead B2B sales and grow our customer base across the Northeast U.S. This role suits a results-oriented sales professional with deep roots in the fresh produce, perishable foods, or food distribution industry, who thrives in a fast-paced, relationship-driven environment. Ideal candidates have an established network among grocery chains, food service distributors, and restaurant groups in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and surrounding markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a wholesale sales strategy to hit revenue and volume targets across the Northeast, with a focus on New York City, Boston, Hartford, and surrounding metro markets
• Build and grow relationships with grocery chains, food service distributors, restaurant and hospitality groups, food and beverage manufacturers, and university/hospital dining and school programs
• Leverage knowledge of regional distribution hubs — including the Hunts Point Produce Market (Bronx, NY) and the Boston Market Terminal — to support purchasing and logistics
• Prospect and onboard new wholesale accounts while growing share of wallet with existing customers
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and volume commitments in line with company margin goals
• Monitor market conditions, commodity pricing, and competitor activity to guide sales decisions
• Partner with procurement, operations, and logistics teams on accurate, on-time order fulfillment across a multi-state territory
• Deliver weekly and monthly sales forecasts, pipeline reports, and account performance updates to leadership
• Resolve customer issues related to product quality, delivery, or billing promptly and professionally
• Represent the company at regional trade shows and industry events, including New England Produce Council and Mid-Atlantic food industry conferences

Required

• 5+ years of sales experience in fresh produce, perishable foods, or food distribution
• Proven track record meeting or exceeding wholesale sales targets
• Strong knowledge of fresh produce commodities, seasonality, and supply chain dynamics
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple accounts and priorities in a time-sensitive, fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce) and Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred

• Established network of wholesale buyers, food service operators, or food and beverage manufacturers in the Northeast U.S.
• Existing relationships with buyers at Hunts Point, New England Produce Center, or other regional terminal markets
• Experience managing or mentoring a sales team
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Agriculture, Food Science, or a related field
• Familiarity with USDA grading standards and food safety regulations (e.g., FSMA)
• Knowledge of regional seasonal demand patterns and Northeast-specific produce varieties

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based incentive pay structure
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Opportunities for advancement within a growing organization

Schedule & Work Environment

This is a full-time, office-based role with regular travel throughout the Northeast U.S., including customer sites, terminal markets, and distribution centers in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and neighboring states. A valid driver's license and reliable transportation are required. Early morning availability is expected due to fresh produce market hours, with occasional overnight travel for regional accounts.
 

Carbonella & DeSarbo, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Produce One and its affiliated companies do not sponsor employment-based visas or other employment authorization programs. Applicants and employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship as a condition of employment.