Account Manager, Foodservice

Ferrara•Chicago, IL

2d•Remote

About The Position

The Account Manager, Foodservice (QSR), will make a meaningful impact on Ferrara’s growth by leading the development of strategic partnerships with quick service restaurant operators and unlocking new ways for Ferrara brands to win beyond the traditional retail shelf. This role is responsible for building a pipeline of innovation-driven opportunities that position Ferrara products as ingredients in beverages, desserts, and menu items, with a strong focus on securing limited-time offers that convert into long-term, everyday menu placements. Serving at the intersection of customer strategy, innovation, and execution, this individual will work closely with cross-functional partners across Brand, R&D, Commercialization, Supply Chain, and Finance, while collaborating directly with customer innovation, culinary, and procurement teams. The Account Manager will drive growth by creating scalable, operator-friendly solutions that meet customer needs, strengthen strategic partnerships, and deliver lasting menu integration.

Requirements

Proven ability to sell ideas and concepts, not just products—translating innovation into executable menu items
Strong understanding of QSR business models, menu development cycles, and LTO strategies
High level of analytical rigor with the ability to quantify opportunities (GSV, NSV, distribution, velocity)
Exceptional influencing skills with the ability to engage and align cross-functional stakeholders internally and externally
Entrepreneurial mindset with a bias for action and ownership of results
Ability to navigate complex organizations and penetrate multiple levels of decision-makers
Strong storytelling capabilities—building compelling, insight-driven narratives that resonate with executive audiences
Creative problem-solving skills with a focus on scalable, operator-friendly solutions
Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously
Customer-first mindset with a focus on building long-term, value-driven partnerships
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required
Minimum of 5+ years of sales or business development experience, preferably within Foodservice or QSR channels
Experience working with or selling into QSRs, restaurant chains, or foodservice operators strongly preferred
Demonstrated success in developing and executing LTO programs or innovation-driven initiatives
Experience working cross-functionally with R&D, marketing, and commercialization teams
Strong financial acumen with the ability to build and present business cases
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint required)
Willingness to travel as needed to support customer engagement and business growth

Responsibilities

Develop and own strategic relationships with key QSR stakeholders across innovation, culinary, marketing, and procurement teams
Build and manage a robust pipeline of LTO opportunities designed to convert into permanent menu placements
Position Ferrara brands as ingredients within QSR platforms (beverages, desserts, bakery, and inclusions), not just as standalone products
Partner cross-functionally to bring concepts from ideation → commercialization → national rollout
Lead customer-facing innovation sessions, presenting forward-thinking, insight-led concepts that align with QSR menu trends and operational feasibility
Translate consumer insights and market trends into compelling, revenue-driving menu solutions
Develop and execute joint business plans that deliver against both Ferrara and customer growth objectives
Identify and unlock scalable platforms (e.g., frozen beverages, bakery, LTO “collections”) that drive repeatable growth across multiple QSR partners
Create and deliver executive-level presentations that clearly articulate the business case, size of prize, and path to scale
Proactively identify risks and develop contingency plans to ensure successful execution and sustained growth
Ensure alignment with internal processes, commercialization timelines, and financial targets