Director, Trade Sales

Lifeway Christian Resources

Director of Trade Sales leading and growing Lifeway's external trade retail channel partnerships across multiple markets. Collaborating cross-functionally to drive annual revenue growth and develop strategic account plans.

Posted 7/10/2026full-timeBrentwood • Tennessee • 🇺🇸 United StatesLeadWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead and grow Lifeway's trade retail channel partnerships across Christian retail, general market (Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million), mass market distribution (Readerlink), and ministry and specialty accounts
Hire, coach, mentor, and develop the Trade Retail and Distribution Sales team, setting clear performance expectations and supporting career growth and succession planning
Build and execute innovative strategic account growth plans including the sell-in of new releases, backlist catalog, and custom publishing solutions to expand market share
Partner cross-functionally with Publishing, Marketing, Finance, Creative, and IT to align priorities and develop go-to-market strategies that grow sales and market share across all Lifeway brands
Develop and manage annual revenue budgets, forecast channel performance, and oversee expense management to ensure profitable year-over-year growth
Oversee account negotiations including discount structures and co-op agreements, and build strong relationships with account buying, marketing, and merchandising teams
Drive a consistent annual growth target across all domestic trade channels with full top- and bottom-line accountability

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, Communication, or a related field, required
10+ years of progressive sales experience across multiple retail and distribution channels including Christian retail, general market, mass market, and specialty/ministry partners
7+ years of sales management experience leading and developing sales teams
5+ years of experience in the publishing industry with strong knowledge of the market
Strong financial and P&L acumen including budget management and profitable revenue accountability
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present confidently to executive and external audiences
Moderate domestic travel, typically overnight
Actively involved in an evangelical Christian church

Benefits

Comp & perks

Healthcare
Vacation and sick time
Holiday pay
Care days
401(k) plan
Maternity and paternity leave
Adoption assistance
Mission trip time

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Budget ManagementSales ForecastingMarket Share ExpansionAccount NegotiationPerformance Management

Soft Skills

Excellent Communication SkillsCoaching and Mentoring

Certifications

Bachelor's Degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, or Communication