North America Channel Sales Manager

Job Description:

Zip-Pak is the global leader in resealable solutions for the flexible packaging industry.  We operate in more than 52 countries worldwide, with a workforce of more than 350 dedicated flexible packaging professionals. These talented individuals adhere to the highest professional standards and focus their efforts on meeting and exceeding the needs of every Zip-Pak client. Combining this commitment to client success with our technical innovation and unmatched network of resources enables us to confidently and consistently deliver integrated resealable solutions to our customers. 

The Channel Manager is a strategic leader responsible for leading and developing a high-performance sales organization that drives sustainable growth across Zip-Pak’s fragmented end markets. This growth is achieved through key channel partners including converter, channels, distributors, agents, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and film producer operating in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This role is accountable for developing and executing comprehensive channel strategies that expand market penetration, strengthen partner collaboration, and accelerate innovation deployment. 

With a strong focus on optimizing channel performance, the Channel Manager will champion Zip-Pak’s value proposition, foster high-impact customer relationships, and lead cross-functional initiatives that align with ITW’s 80/20 Business Model and long-term strategic priorities. This role plays a critical part in shaping go-to-market execution, enabling customer-back innovation, leading, and developing high-performing sales capabilities to support scalable growth. 

The Channel Manager will be based in Carol Stream, IL and will report to the Global Sales Director of Zip-Pak. This individual will have a team of 3 direct reports and will be responsible for our North American channel partners.

Responsibilities:

Foster Key Customer Relationships 

·         Build strong, personal relationships with key “80” customers to drive customer-back innovation and deliver differentiated products, services, and collaborative solutions. 

Develop Market-Driven Growth Strategies  

·         Create and refine growth strategies based on customer feedback and evolving market dynamics

·         Ability to identify and prioritize high-value opportunities and build a strong pipeline

·         Collaborate with Strategic Marketing and Innovation teams to explore sub-segments, identify growth opportunities, and define strategic direction by market

Drive Accelerated Organic Growth Above Market in Key Markets through Channels and Partners 

·         Lead Zip-Pak’s growth initiatives through our channels, converter, distributor, and agent, in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico markets 

·         Develop and execute strategic plans including: 

·         Defending and expanding existing accounts 

·         Identifying and acquiring new accounts 

·         Implementing go-to-market strategies and launching innovative initiatives 

·         Collaborate closely with distributor and agent partners providing tools, insights, and support to ensure consistent execution and measurable results 

·         Leverage partnerships with OEMs and film producers to support divisional growth through new    projects, customer leads, innovation, and market insights 

Build and Lead a High-Performing Sales Team 

·         Continuously assess team performance and customer engagement to optimize resource allocation 

·         Maintains a disciplined focus and positive energy despite setbacks or market changes with self and team

·         Provide coaching and development, and partner with HR to recruit and retain top talent aligned with growth objectives 

Execute a Disciplined Sales Process 

·         Ensure consistent application of structured sales processes to drive performance and accountability 

·         Positions solutions to address client pain points and deliver measurable ROI

Leverage the ITW’s Business Model of 80/20 Front-to-Back Process

·         Build expertise in applying the business model to strategically lead sales efforts and drive sustainable growth 

Champion the Company’s Value Proposition

·         Lead efforts to articulate, deliver, and continuously enhance Zip-Pak's value-proposition across all sales channels 

Education and Experience 

·         Bachelor’s degree in business, Sales, Marketing, Engineering or related field required

·         At least 10 years of sales leadership with direct and indirect sales channel food industry and/or primary packaging experience is a plus 

Skills and Qualifications 

·         Must be able to travel up to 35% of time 

·         Must exhibit consistent leadership skills and behaviors: Building trust and integrity, emotional intelligence, adaptability, strategic vision, resilience, results oriented, accountability, inclusive team building, growth mindset, and customer-centric focus 

·         Excellent communication skills (both internally, across Vice President / General Manager & directors, and externally with customer senior management), including professional presentation skills 

·         Collaborative team player and leader. Ability to work cross-functionally across all levels of the organization 

Compensation Information:

The salary range for this position is $135,000.00 to $155,000.00 annually.  This position is also eligible for an annual bonus of up to 20% of total compensation. The pay rate for a successful candidate will depend on the geographic location, this salary range is for a successful candidate in the Chicagoland area.  The specific hiring rate within the posted range will depend on the candidate's qualifications and prior experience.