Catering Account Manager

Sifted•Chicago, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Sifted is seeking an energetic, detail-oriented Account Manager to serve as the on-site liaison for a client in the Chicago area. The role is responsible for launching and managing the account and delivering a seamless experience across multiple service lines. It combines client relationship management with front-of-house team leadership, budget oversight, daily service operations, and regular client performance updates. The position supports breakfast and lunch service for up to 450 guests per day, as well as special events such as breakfasts, afternoon snacks, and happy hours. The Account Manager works closely with the Executive Chef and culinary team to support scratch cooking, varied menus, dietary restrictions and allergens, food safety, sanitation, and consistent portion sizes. The role requires a reliable vehicle, valid driver's license, and auto insurance, and is based both in a commercial kitchen and on-site in client offices.

Requirements

Proven experience in account management, client services, or a similar role in the hospitality or food service industry.
Experience opening corporate dining concepts and creating and implementing processes.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport quickly with clients and team members.
Strong follow-through, attention to detail, and ability to balance granular work with big-picture thinking and decisiveness with patience in time-sensitive situations.
Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, including managing budgets and operational details simultaneously.
Energetic and adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Comfort with feedback and eagerness to learn and grow in the role.
Experience with Google apps (Gmail and Google Drive), Microsoft Office, and Slack.
Must maintain a ServSafe Food Handler card; the company pays for it.
Reliable vehicle, valid driver's license, and auto insurance.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and bend, squat, and reach.

Responsibilities

Serve as the sole point of contact for the onsite eatery client and foster a long-term relationship through trust and consistent communication.
Oversee daily service operations, including breakfast and lunch service lines supporting up to 450 guests per day.
Implement and enforce best practices to streamline operations and maintain high service standards.
Clarify and meet client needs and expectations through proactive communication and follow-ups.
Lead, train, and develop the front-of-house team to deliver service aligned with Sifted’s brand values and client expectations.
Help standardize and consistently maintain portion sizes.
Collaborate with the Executive Chef and culinary team to resolve issues affecting the client experience, conduct quality analysis, and ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
Support a scratch-cooking environment and menus featuring varied cuisines and flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions and allergens.
Monitor spending and keep operations within the established client account budget.
Prepare regular client reports and performance updates highlighting successes, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
Coordinate special events outside lunch service, including breakfasts, afternoon snacks, and happy hours, and communicate catering orders clearly across departments.
Create and manage schedules for hourly front-of-house personnel.
Assist with managing event equipment, décor, supplies, and storage spaces.
Ensure menu, ingredient, and allergen signage is accurate.

Benefits

Starting compensation of $60,000 per year plus a yearly bonus tied to goal achievement.
Company-sponsored health insurance plans, including a 100% company-paid HDHP; vision and dental opt-in.
401(k) program available after six months of employment.
Unlimited paid time off.
10 paid company holidays.
Paid winter break from December 24 through January 1.
Monthly cell phone usage reimbursement.
Free lunch during meal service.
100% mileage reimbursement.
Opportunities to take on larger roles and learn within a fast-growing start-up.