Customer Development Manager – Natural & Independent

About the role

The Customer Development Manager – Natural & Independent will drive growth for Lavazza within the natural, specialty, and independent retail channels. Working closely with distributors, brokers, sales, marketing, and revenue growth teams, you will expand distribution, increase consumption, and strengthen the Lavazza brand in these fast‑growing segments.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and grow business with natural, specialty, independent, and national/regional retail customers.
• Support distributor partnerships such as UNFI, KeHE, and regional networks.
• Identify opportunities to expand distribution, assortment, and merchandising presence.
• Partner with brokers and sales teams to execute customer plans and secure new business.
• Analyze customer performance data and provide actionable recommendations.
• Support presentations, line reviews, category reviews, and new item placement initiatives.
• Monitor marketplace trends across natural, organic, better‑for‑you, and specialty categories.
• Participate in trade events, customer meetings, and channel‑specific networking.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally on promotional programs, product launches, and activations.
• Gather competitive intelligence and channel insights to inform business planning.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 3‑5 years of experience in customer development, sales, category management, business development, trade marketing, or account management.
• Background in food, beverage, natural products, health & wellness, specialty retail, or CPG.
• Experience with natural national/regional retailers, independent accounts, or distributor partners.
• Proven ability to build relationships and influence internal and external stakeholders.

Required skills