Sales & Marketing(Japanese Food Industry)

Job DescriptionAs a small business, the role is dynamic and involves a variety of responsibilities across sales, customer relationship management, trade shows, and sales support activities.The Inside Sales Representative will be responsible for developing new business opportunities and managing existing customer accounts, with approximately a 50/50 balance between new and existing business. New business development is primarily generated through inbound inquiries and leads from trade shows rather than cold calling.Previous sales experience is not required. We are looking for someone with strong communication skills who enjoys interacting with customers and building relationships. A genuine interest in matcha and Japanese products, curiosity, initiative, and a reliable work ethic are especially important for this role.ResponsibilitiesSales & Account ManagementRespond to inbound inquiries from prospective customers and identify potential business opportunities.Follow up with leads generated through inquiries and trade shows to develop new customer relationships.Manage and maintain relationships with existing customers, ensuring consistent communication and encouraging repeat business.Develop both new and existing business, with an approximately 50/50 focus.Review prospective wholesale customers and assist with the wholesale account approval process.Answer customer inquiries and provide timely, professional support.Resolve customer concerns by investigating issues and coordinating appropriate solutions.Learn about matcha, tea products, and customer needs in order to effectively introduce and recommend products.Collaborate with team members to support sales goals and overall business growth.Trade Show SupportPrepare for and attend domestic trade shows approximately 4–5 times per year.Represent the company at trade shows, introduce products, generate leads, and build relationships with prospective customers.Follow up with trade show leads and develop potential business opportunities.Travel to Japan approximately once per year may be required.Sales & Marketing SupportCreate product presentations and other sales materials to support sales activities.Assist with other sales and marketing-related projects as needed.RequirementsStrong communication and interpersonal skills.Comfortable communicating with customers and building relationships with a variety of people.Genuine interest in matcha, Japanese products, or Japanese culture.Curious and eager to learn about products, customers, and the industry.Proactive and willing to take initiative.Reliable, responsible, and committed to performing work with care and professionalism.Ability to follow up consistently and respond to customer needs in a timely manner.Business-level English communication skills. Japanese language skills are a plus, but not required.Previous sales experience is not required. Candidates with customer-facing experience or strong communication skills are welcome to apply.Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Ability to travel for domestic trade shows approximately 4–5 times per year and internationally to Japan approximately once per year.Compensation$60,000–$80,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.Exempt or non-exempt classification will be determined based on the position's duties and applicable requirements.Work ScheduleFull-time, Monday through Friday9:00 AM–5:30 PMOn-site five days per weekOccasional overtime, weekend work, and travel may be required for trade shows and other business needs.