The Industry Relations Manager will play a pivotal role in driving chain operator participation for FoodOvation Exchange events. These exclusive B2B events bring together Technomic Top 500 chain restaurants and best-in-class food and beverage suppliers to foster menu innovation and collaboration. By identifying and engaging culinary, menu development, and procurement leaders with decision-making authority, the Industry Relations Manager will secure operator participation agreements, ensuring the success of each event and contributing to the growth of Revelry Agency. FoodOvation was founded in 2018, and we have executed almost 40 programs since its inception. Events take place in world-class resorts.
The FoodOvation Exchange event platform is part of Revelry Agency, a company that helps brands and companies win in foodservice and food away from home channels.
Key Responsibilities
1.) Operator Recruitment and Outreach
Identify key decision-makers and influencers in culinary, menu development, and procurement teams within Technomic Top 500 chain restaurants.
Build and manage a database of potential operator participants, leveraging industry insights and networking opportunities.
Develop customized outreach strategies to engage target operators, highlighting the unique value of FoodOvation Exchange events.
2.) Sales Strategy & Relationship Management
Communicate the benefits of participating in FoodOvation Exchange events, emphasizing menu innovation, operational alignment, and collaboration opportunities.
Manage the full recruitment cycle: initial outreach, information sharing, agreement negotiation, and follow-up to secure participation.
Cultivate long-term relationships with chain operators to encourage ongoing involvement in future events.
3.) Collaboration & Event Alignment
Partner with the internal event planning team to ensure the needs and goals of participating operators are met during each event.
Collaborate with the marketing team to create compelling materials and communication strategies to attract operators.
4.) Market Insights & Networking
Stay informed about industry trends, challenges, and priorities for chain operators to tailor outreach and event experiences effectively.
Attend foodservice industry events and conferences to build connections and deepen relationships with potential participants.
5.) Performance Tracking & Reporting
Maintain accurate records of outreach efforts, conversations, and participation agreements in CRM systems.
Report regularly on recruitment progress, pipeline status, and event participation metrics.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Foodservice Expertise: Deep understanding of the foodservice industry, particularly within chain operations and menu development.
Relationship Building: Strong networking skills and the ability to establish credibility and trust with senior-level culinary and procurement professionals.
Sales Proficiency: Experience in B2B sales, recruitment, or similar roles requiring persuasive communication and relationship management.
Strategic Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft tailored pitches that resonate with chain operators.
Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with Technomic Top 500 chains and their operational structures, priorities, and challenges.
Organizational Skills: Proven ability to manage multiple recruitment cycles, track progress, and meet deadlines consistently.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Operator Participation: Achieve targets for securing chain operator commitments for each FoodOvation Exchange event.
Pipeline Growth: Maintain a robust and diverse pipeline of potential operator participants.
Retention & Relationships: Foster strong relationships with operators to encourage repeat participation and build brand advocacy.
Event Success Contribution: Ensure participation aligns with event goals and contributes to successful collaboration and innovation outcomes.
Professional Development
Revelry Agency offers opportunities for training in sales techniques, foodservice industry trends, and relationship management to ensure continued success in this role.
Mandatories:
Flexibility to travel
Requires some weekends, nights, and long days
Location
Remote or/in office--this position is not location contingent. We would prefer to have a person working remote in a state where we already do business-CT, ID, IL, MA, OR, SD, WA. We have a small office in Ketchum, ID.