Now Hiring - Lakeside Organic Gardens - Account Manager in Watsonville, CA

Full description of the position

Company Overview

Lakeside Organic Gardens is the largest family-owned and operated solely organic vegetable grower/shipper in the USA. We are dedicated to sustainable farming practices and committed to providing high-quality, organically grown produce year-round. Summary The Account Manager is responsible for managing and growing sales accounts for a leading agriculture company that markets and distributes over 50 different commodities of fresh produce. This role requires strong relationship-building skills, an in-depth understanding of perishable products, and the ability to navigate fast-paced produce markets. The Account Manager will serve as the primary point of contact for buyers, distributors, and retail/foodservice partners, ensuring consistent service, reliable communication, and sales growth across a diverse range of commodities.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow a portfolio of accounts across retail, wholesale, and foodservice channels.
• Act as the primary liaison between customers and the company, ensuring consistent communication and high-quality service.
• Sell and promote a wide range of produce commodities, adapting sales strategies to customer needs, seasonal availability, and market trends.
• Monitor produce markets daily to provide accurate pricing, availability, and logistics updates to customers.
• Collaborate with operations, packing, and logistics teams to ensure on-time order fulfillment and quality standards.
• Maintain knowledge of commodity specifications, packaging, grades, and seasonal cycles.
• Identify new business opportunities and work to expand existing customer relationships.
• Prepare regular sales reports, forecasts, and performance updates for management.
• Represent the company at industry trade shows, buyer meetings, and produce networking events.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality standards, and industry regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Business, Marketing, or related field (preferred but not required).
• 3+ years of experience in produce sales, agriculture account management, or commodity trading.
• Strong knowledge of fresh produce markets, commodities, and seasonal trends.
• Proven ability to manage multiple commodities and accounts simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt quickly to changing market conditions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM systems.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred due to diverse grower and buyer relationships.
• Ability to travel to customer locations, industry events, and company facilities as needed. Competencies
• Strong results-driven mindset.
• Must have organic produce experience.
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking ability.
• Customer-focused with a proactive service approach.
• High integrity and professionalism when representing the company.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, competitive produce marketplace.

Working Conditions

• Office-based with frequent customer interaction via phone, email, and video.
• Not a remote or hybrid position
• Travel required for customer visits, trade shows, and produce industry events.
• Flexible schedule during peak produce seasons; may require early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Call-To-Action If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in the organic agriculture industry, we invite you to apply today and join us in our mission at Lakeside Organic Gardens! Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $30.00 per hour Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits

:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off Work Location: In person