Prairie AquaTech, LLC dba Houdek is searching for a Sales Manager - European Pet Food Sales (a contracted position) the pet food ingredient sales activities across Europe. Houdek is a global leader in fermentation with a vision for better plant-based ingredients for a better life. Leveraging patented technology implemented at its world-class production facility in South Dakota, the company first demonstrated its vision in 2019 by successfully opening a commercial-scale production facility that ships ingredients locally and globally.

Essential Functions:
This individual will drive the expansion of Houdek's ingredient portfolio, specifically Proteger™, and develop strong, long-lasting relationships with pet food manufacturers. The ideal candidate will have a proven transaction history of selling ingredients within the pet food industry, with a deep understanding of value-based selling and a strong ability to prospect, negotiate, and close deals.

Key Responsibilities:
•Lead the development and execution of a sales strategy to grow Houdek's footprint in the EU pet food market, focusing on the sale of our fermented plant-based ingredient.
•Serve as the primary executive-level point of contact for existing customers and new prospects, overseeing key accounts and managing relationships within the EU pet food sector.
•Utilize a value-selling approach to differentiate Houdek's ingredients based on performance, sustainability, and health benefits, rather than just price.
•Establish quarterly and annual goals for the EU sales in alignment with the overall sales strategy and goals.
•Develop and implement a four-square value sales plan for each market segment (e.g., manufacturers, distributors, large pet food producers) and optimize the sales process for maximum impact.
•Negotiate and close sales contracts, develop pricing strategies, and manage customer inquiries to ensure customer satisfaction and retention.
•Act as the customer advocate within the company, ensuring smooth collaboration between the sales team, production, logistics, and quality control teams.
•Work closely with the product development and commercialization teams to conduct market research, including competitor analysis and customer feedback, to inform new product development and positioning.
•Provide strategic insights based on customer interactions and market trends to support ongoing product innovation.

Experience & Skill Requirements:
•Location: Must be based in Europe, with flexibility to travel across the EU to meet clients and attend industry events.
•Proven experience in sales and sales management, with a history of successfully selling ingredients to the pet food industry.
•Strong track record in value-based selling, with the ability to sell solutions that deliver long-term benefits and create value for pet food manufacturers.
•Transaction history of selling ingredients or raw materials to pet food manufacturers, with a focus on understanding customer needs, product positioning, and technical selling.
•Deep understanding of the EU pet food market
•Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and manage a sales team to meet ambitious goals.
•Strong strategic planning and organizational skills, with the ability to execute at both the tactical and operational levels.
•Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders.
•Fluency in English is required; proficiency in other European languages is a plus.

Application, interview, and selection process will be strictly confidential. Please send resume to Ashley Donley, VP Human Resources at ashleyd@southdakotainnovation.com.