Icebreaker and Smartwool are looking for an exceptional Account Manager Central Switzerland to join our Sales team based in Zurich, Switzerland.

Driven by the belief that nature has the answers, we provide natural performance alternatives to synthetic-based apparel, to create a healthier and more sustainable future for our species and the planet. We're passionate about connecting people to natural alternatives.

Let’s Talk about the Role

Reporting to the Sales Manager, Switzerland and Italy Sales, you will directly manage and develop the Independent, Lifestyle, Sporting Goods and Outdoor Account channel’s strategic accounts for the assigned categories of business in the Central Switzerland while ensuring that the strong brand equity of Icebreaker and Smartwool are maintained.

How You Will Make a Difference

You will achieve this through:

Collaboration with Sales Manager to develop account-specific sales strategies.

Achievement of annual sales targets, including top-line results and specific product segmentation strategies that drive maximum channel profitability.

Management of sell-in process to adhere to account proposals and maximize full-price sales and margins.

Delivery of accurate sales analysis that reflect market demand.

Implementation of the right product assortment for strategic accounts, ensuring alignment with the appropriate in-store experience across all relevant channels.

Launch of new seasons effectively, ensuring stores look great (fully stocked, VM’d, and POS up) and store staff are buzzed (Pure Genius training).

Ensuring the effective and responsible flow of Icebreaker and Smartwool inventory across the Swiss Outdoor, Sporting Goods, Lifestyle and Independent market.

Maintenance of account plans that are support and align with brand sales objectives and merchandising strategies.

Building of strong insightful and influential brand ambassadors within strategic accounts to identify opportunities and deliver a best-in-class Icebreaker and Smartwool experience at retail.

Leveraging knowledge of industry trends, market insights and competitor data to develop account and business plans.

Partnership with marketing to execute in-store events and marketing campaigns.

Full understanding of customer’s needs and decision-making process to create win-win solutions.

Skills for Success

2-3 years of sales/marketing account management experience, ideally in outdoor apparel wholesale.

A relevant tertiary qualification  (e.g. Bachelor of Commerce or Business).

In-depht knowledge of the Outdoor and Independent retail landscape in Switzerland.

Proven sales process knowledge and ability to apply policies effectively.

Proven ability to deliver revenue and meet sales targets.

Brand ambassador passionate about our story the authenticity and uniqueness of our brands.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a focus on relationship building.

Analytical mindset combined with strong attention to detail.

Exceptional problem-solving skills and time management.

Exceptional organizational skills and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.

Self-motivated and independent with the ability to seek guidance when needed.

Active and adventurous, aligning with the spirit of our brands.

A passionate high achiever – works hard and plays hard.

Proficiency in Swiss German, French and English.

Ability to travel throughout Switzerland, with the capacity to spend up to 25% of time on the road.

Proficiency in Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint and Word).

A formal education and subsequent University Bachelor or Master’s degree in Commerce or Business are nice to have, but we are most interested in your total experience and professional achievements.

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package:

A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do

An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together

Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization

A 50% discount on all VF brands

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity 

As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, VF is committed to support disadvantaged groups whilst providing equal opportunities for both VF associates and applicants alike.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you!