National Account Director (BEV)

Job Description

BDA is seeking a National Account Director to lead the strategy and execution of over $30M in revenue across national beverage accounts. The National Account Director will lead a team of 6–8 direct reports and oversee complex brand and merchandising initiatives across 50+ supplier programs. The ideal candidate will be based in Chicago, IL and open to working a hybrid work schedule. Other locations may be considered for exceptional candidates.What this role involves:

• Owning the day-to-day relationship and strategic direction of national beverage accounts with $30M+ in annual revenue.
• Managing, mentoring, and inspiring a team of 7–8 account management professionals.
• Guiding clients through customized promotional merchandise solutions.
• Balancing and leading 50+ active supplier initiatives.
• Driving change management efforts.
• Representing BDA with polish and credibility in executive-level presentations.
• Delivering business insights and performance results through compelling proposals and data-driven storytelling.
• Serving as an escalation point for both clients and internal stakeholders.
• Collaborating across internal teams to ensure timely and high-quality program execution.
• Analyzing financial reports, gross margins, and client sales performance.
• Supporting hiring, performance management, and ongoing development of direct reports.
• Partnering with the Director on forecasting, business planning, and revenue growth.

Requirements:

• 10+ years of experience in enterprise account management, sales leadership, or national program oversight within the Beverage Industry.
• 5-8 years of proven success leading or mentoring 5+ ICs through periods of rapid company growth and organizational change.
• Experience managing multi-million-dollar beverage industry accounts (ideally $25M+).
• Strong knowledge of supplier relationship management.
• Executive-level presentation skills.
• Experience in promotional merchandise strongly preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated track record of maintaining positive culture and team performance during times of ambiguity or change.
• Financial acumen including margin analysis, forecasting, and sales performance tracking.
• Proficiency with CRM and order management systems (Salesforce preferred) and MS Office tools.

BDA offers:

• Robust PTO; vacation, a paid volunteer day, holidays and summer Fridays
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance
• 401k
• Tuition reimbursement
• Mental health and financial wellness programs
• Professional development opportunities including tuition reimbursement