Business Development and Partnership Executive

4 days ago


Lincolnwood, Illinois, United States Food For Thought (Chicago) Full time
Job Title:

Senior Business Development and Partnership Manager

Location:

Chicago Headquarters - National Territory
Work Arrangement:

Hybrid Work: In-Person & Virtual Client Meetings Required
Hours:

Full-Time / Salaried
Start Date:

As Agreed Upon
Compensation:

$125,000 + Commission (DOE)
About Us:

At Food for Thought, we are leaders in special events, catering, and contract food services, partnering with high-profile clients across various industries. Known for delivering exceptional culinary experiences, we're expanding our reach and seeking an experienced Senior Business Development and Partnership Manager to drive our growth. This role is perfect for someone with a proven track record in the hospitality, contract foodservice, or event management sectors, specifically with experience in companies like Sodexo, Compass, Levy Restaurants, or similar.

Role Overview:

We're looking for a dynamic leader who thrives on building relationships and identifying strategic business opportunities. You'll focus on expanding our Contract Foodservice business, with a portfolio of other products as a secondary source of commission. This senior-level position reports directly to the executive team, offering the opportunity to shape our organization's future.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Leverage your 5-10 years of industry experience to identify and secure high-value business partnerships in catering and food service sectors.
  • Develop and execute strategies to achieve ambitious sales and market growth targets.
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with key decision-makers at potential and existing clients.
  • Stay ahead of market trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities to ensure Food for Thought remains a top player.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to ensure seamless execution of events and contracts.
  • Represent Food for Thought at key industry events and conferences, building our brand and expanding your network.

Requirements:

  • A minimum of 5-10 years in business development, sales, or partnership management within contract foodservice companies, hospitality, or large-scale event management.
  • Food and Beverage experience preferred.
  • Strong negotiation skills and a proven ability to close large contracts.
  • A strategic thinker with deep knowledge of hospitality market trends and client needs.
  • Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently while driving measurable results.
  • Proficient in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality, or a related field.

Why Work with Us:

At Food for Thought, we are committed to fostering an environment that values both professional growth and personal well-being. As part of our team, you'll receive:

  • Competitive Salary with Performance-Based Bonuses:
  • We recognize and reward your contributions with a competitive base salary and bonuses tied to your success in driving business growth.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package:
  • Enjoy full health, dental, and vision insurance coverage for you and your family, along with a robust 401K retirement plan, including employer matching.
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO):
  • We offer ample vacation, personal, and holiday time to support a healthy work-life balance.
  • Hybrid Work Environment:
  • With a mix of in-person and virtual meetings, we offer flexibility that allows you to excel from wherever you're most productive.
  • Collaborate with Senior Leadership:
  • As a key player on our team, you'll work directly with senior leadership, helping shape the direction of the business and contributing to its long-term success.
  • Career Growth Opportunities through FFT University:
  • Take advantage of ongoing professional development, leadership training, and advancement opportunities with access to FFT University, our internal platform designed to help you grow.
  • Comprehensive Support for Families:
  • We offer equal parental leave for both mothers and fathers, along with a full range of insurance options, including life, AD&D, critical illness, and even pet insurance.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
  • Access confidential support for mental health, wellness, and other personal needs for you and your family through our EAP.
  • Commitment to Innovation, Sustainability, and Employee Well-Being:
  • Be part of a forward-thinking company that values people, planet, and progress. Our culture fosters creativity, diversity, and an inclusive workplace where all employees thrive.
  • Employee Meal Plan & Discounts:
  • Enjoy exclusive discounts and meal plans for yourself and your family as part of the perks of working with a top culinary company.

Visit

https://www.foodforthought.com/

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
EEO Statement

Food For Thought provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all applicants and employees, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
E-Verify Participation

Food For Thought participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that your employer has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact DHS.

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