Trade Marketing Specialist

ABOUT ESCALADE WINES & SPIRITS

Escalade Wines & Spirits is a dynamic, Montreal-based agency representing a portfolio of premium wine and spirit brands across Canada. Our team is passionate, collaborative, and solutions-driven, with a strong focus on execution, relationships, and results. We value initiative, teamwork, and hands-on leadership at every level.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the National Trade Marketing Manager, and based in the Montreal office, the Trade Marketing & Sales Support Specialist is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing trade marketing initiatives to drive visibility, brand growth, and in-store activation across Quebec and the Maritimes. This role also provides sales support and coordination to ensure smooth execution of programs and activities with 2 provincial managers.

The ideal candidate is creative, proactive, resourceful and organized. Known for their agility and innovative problem-solving, they manage competing priorities with ease and a proactive mindset. They lead with initiative and are always ready to roll up their sleeves to deliver results.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Trade Marketing & Activation

• Develop annual and long-term brand plans and in-store activation strategies with provincial managers and brand owners.
• Create and implement trade marketing tools and promotional materials (shelf talkers, neck-tags, image programs, thematic activations, value-adds, POS, etc.).
• Support and execute SAQ and provincial board programs, including pricing submissions, listings, activations, and product updates.
• Plan and execute special events, tastings, media activations, trade shows, producer visits, and consumer/trade experiences.
• Manage POS materials, sourcing, printing, budgets, delivery, and inventory.
• Help coordinate local participation in wine shows, corporate events, and supplier visits in Quebec and the Maritimes.
• Maintain activation calendars, plans, and follow-ups to ensure timely execution.

Analytics, Reporting & Insights

• Review brand performance, pricing, competitive activity, and market trends to identify opportunities.
• Support pricing reviews and category analysis as needed.
• Help track ROI and efficiency of trade marketing activities.

Sales Support & Administration

• Coordinate supply inventories, sample orders, and follow-ups
• Support the creation of technical/sales tools and presentations
• Maintain updates in PAWA (CRM) and other internal systems
• Assist with customer follow-ups, order tracking, and program implementation.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

• Fully bilingual in French and English (spoken and written)
• 3+ years of experience in trade marketing, sales, sales support in the alcoholic beverage industry. (strong preference for wine & spirits)
• Postsecondary degree
• Valid passport, driver's license and access to a vehicle
• Ability to travel within central and eastern Canada (10%-15% of time)
• Ability to lift and transport sample cases (approx. 20 kg)
• Proactive, solution-focused, and action-oriented — a true go-getter.
• Strong communicator with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Highly organized and adaptable, with strong attention to detail.
• Team player with leadership instincts and the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Creative mindset with the ability to problem-solve and improve processes.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
• Wine/spirit knowledge or training - WSET, Sommelier is an asset

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Group medical, dental, and insurance benefits
• RRSP contribution
• Performance-based bonus

The above information is representative of the work performed in this position; however it is not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific duty or responsibility does not exclude it from the position if the work is similar or related to the essential duties and responsibilities.

Escalade is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.