John Leslie

About John Leslie

I help foodservice manufacturers and distributors drive profitable growth by transforming underperforming territories into high-velocity, high-trust markets. I focus on accelerating broker performance, converting white-space opportunities, and turning strategy into measurable results.I help foodservice manufacturers and distributors drive profitable growth by transforming underperforming territories into high-trust, high-performance markets.With 15+ years in foodservice and CPG, I’ve built the Broker Acceleration Framework™—a proven system for equipping brokers, expanding distribution, and deepening customer partnerships. It’s delivered measurable success across regional and national accounts through smarter planning, stronger execution, and consistent accountability.Highlights include reversing a $9.5M territory decline at Armanino into 16% YoY growth, generating $45M in contribution margin at Simplot by re-engaging national accounts such as Twin Peaks, Buc-ee’s, and Chicken Express, and opening new distribution lanes with major broadliners.I’m known for earning trust quickly, reading people accurately, and turning insight into action. I combine analytics and empathy using tools like Ignite, Salesforce, and forecasting models to build playbooks that deliver both growth and profitability.Whether launching new products, opening new accounts, or leading multi-state go-to-market efforts, I connect strategy with the people who make it happen. Passionate about food innovation, mentorship, and building teams that win together.

Experience

1. Regional Sales Manager

   High Liner Foods

   Jan 2026 — Present · Austin, TX, US

   Lead foodservice sales accounts across the South Central region, working closely with customers operating within complex distributor and operator environments.Partner with and develop broker teams, collaborate with distributor leadership, and align regional priorities with company strategy and customer objectives.Drive focused execution through clear priorities, strong working relationships, and disciplined follow-through to expand distribution, increase velocity, and deliver sustainable, profitable growth.

Education

• Seattle Pacific University

  BA, Biology (Pre-Med)

  2005

Skills

• Merchandising
• Crm
• Strategic Planning
• Marketing Strategy
• Business Development
• Account Management
• Leadership
• Customer Relationship Management (Crm)
• Sales Management
• Marketing
• Management
• Team Building
• Key Account Development
• Frozen Food
• National Accounts
• Inventory Management
• Key Account Management
• Food & Beverage
• Sales
• Sales Operations
• Customer Service
• New Business Development
• Food
• Forecasting
• Consultative Sales Professional
• Food Industry