Manager, Business Development and Partnership

Industry: Management

Company: Bento Sushi

MANAGER, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND PARTNERSHIPS, COMMISSARY

Join Team Bento and be a part of our group of companies which operates more than 5600 locations globally. With operations across Canada and United States, Bento brings together a dynamic team of people with diverse backgrounds, experience, and talent, to create an exceptional guest experience.

Location:

• Chicago Commissary: Unit 189, 5801 W Dickens Ave, Chicago IL 60639 I This is a hybrid role.

Job Responsibilities:

The Manager, Business Development and Partnerships is responsible for managing and fostering the relationships of a select number of national and regional customer accounts, as well as developing growth opportunities within assigned areas.

• Manage and strengthen relationships with Bento’s key customers. Regular communication and in-person meetings to present new products, review the business and plan for the future.
• Plan and prepare for business reviews – build PowerPoint presentations, prepare sales analysis, and present internal initiatives.
• Identification of opportunities to drive sales and profitability in all channels of business.
• Plan and execute initiatives by working with various cross functional teams: Operations, Marketing, Supply Chain, Product Development, Quality Assurance.
• Business development within existing customer base. Plan and develop new store builds and renovations with category managers.
• Weekly or Bi-Weekly visits to customer retail locations, onsite product launch orientations and new store openings.
• Monthly travel to various retail locations within the region as needed.
• Working with the sales team to plan promotional campaigns, special events, and participate in the product development process.
• Administrative support on new product listings, deal sheets, cost change forms, and others for assigned customer base.
• Timely and accurate communication to Bento Operations team on key customer updates and initiatives.
• Stay abreast of internal dynamics through regular in-store visits, as well as non-Bento locations to gain insights into industry trends, competition, and customer behaviors.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor degree in Business Administration, Commerce, Marketing, or other related field.
• 2+ years of work experience in a related role or industry preferred
• Highly motivated individual with a passion for sushi and food.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills – can hold a conversation and develop strong bonds with people.
• Ability to wear multiple hats and manage priorities/deadlines, with strong attention to detail and follow up.
• Strong proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Valid driver’s license and own vehicle – regular travel is required to stores and customer headquarters.

Why you should join our team:

• Power of Collaboration: Live our core values – “Own it”, “Care about it”, “Make it exceptional”, and “Win together” – as we work together to create better food for everyone, the Japanese way.
• Competitive Rewards: Reap the benefits of a comprehensive compensation package with a bonus plan, group health benefits, and retirement plans that recognize your outstanding contribution.
• Ignite Your Potential: Fuel your growth with extensive training and opportunities for career advancement, empowering you to unleash your full potential.
• Champion Diversity and Inclusion: We proudly celebrate and champion employment equity, diversity, and inclusion through our Affinity Committee, ensuring that every voice is empowered and heard.
• Lead the Sustainability Revolution: As part of our commitment to ESG, our Sustainability Committee drives our environmental initiatives and champions sustainable practices.

For more information about Bento Sushi and our opportunities, please visit www.bentosushi.com.

Applicants with prior experience in roles such as Account Management, Category Management, Partnership Management, Business Development, and Grocery Retail are encouraged to apply. Candidates elected for an interview will be contacted.