Remote Manager Restaurant Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL

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.

**NOTE: THIS ROLE IS REMOTE**

• 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

• 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

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees by providing comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, a 401(k), and paid time off (PTO).  Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Candy-2025-OE-QR

The salary range for this position is $88,358 to $123,700 annually.