Catering Account Manager
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 providing a seamless experience across multiple service lines. The Account Manager builds and maintains the client relationship, oversees front-of-house operations and personnel, manages spending within the client’s budget, and provides regular performance updates. The position oversees daily breakfast and lunch service for up to 450 guests per day, as well as special events such as breakfasts, afternoon snacks, and happy hours. It works closely with the Executive Chef and culinary team to support quality, food safety, sanitation, dietary accommodations, and a scratch-cooking environment. The role also manages front-of-house schedules, event resources, signage, and operational processes. The position is based both in a commercial kitchen and at client offices. It requires a reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and auto insurance, as well as the ability to maintain a ServSafe Food Handler card, which is company-paid.
Requirements
- Proven experience in account management, client services, or a similar role in hospitality or food service.
- Experience opening corporate dining concepts and creating and implementing processes.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to quickly build rapport with clients and team members.
- Operationally minded, with strong follow-through; able to balance attention to detail and big-picture thinking, and decisiveness and patience in time-sensitive situations.
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, including managing budgets and operational details simultaneously.
- Energetic and adaptable, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable with feedback and eager to learn and grow in the role.
- Experience with Google apps (Gmail and Google Drive), Microsoft Office, and Slack.
- Reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and auto insurance.
- Must maintain a ServSafe Food Handler card; the company pays for it.
- 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 breakfast and lunch service operations, supporting up to 450 guests per day.
- Implement and enforce best practices to streamline operations and maintain high service standards.
- Understand 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 address issues affecting the client experience, conduct quality analysis, and ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
- Support a scratch-cooking environment and menus spanning varied cuisines and flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions and allergens.
- Monitor and manage spending to keep account operations within the established client 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 ensure catering orders are communicated and executed across departments.
- Create and manage schedules for hourly front-of-house personnel.
- Assist with managing event equipment, décor, supplies, and storage spaces.
- Ensure menus, ingredient information, and allergen signage are 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, with 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
