Business Development Manager

Overview: Food entrepreneur seeks business development manager with experience in business development, brand partnerships, e-commerce, and audience growth.

Job Type: Contract

Location: Chicago, IL (preferred)

Estimated Start Time: Early May, 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

Job Summary
A Chicago based food entrepreneur and author is seeking a full-time, growth minded Business Development Manager to help lead this woman-owned small business into its next phase of growth. Founded in 2020, the brand shares recipes (e.g., recipe blog and videos), and sells a line of branded cookbooks and kitchenware (DTC and wholesale). Proceeds from cookbooks are donated to children’s charities in the Chicago area. The brand is looking to expand into retail, brand partnerships, and a travel series. This role requires a motivated, strategic leader who can foster inclusion, trust, joy and productivity while driving operational excellence and growth.

Objectives of this role

• Partner with the Founder/Owner & key team members to develop and execute strategic initiatives that align with the company’s values.
• Lead new business development for the company by strengthening and expanding relationships with brands, retailers, and individuals that align with the company’s values.
• Identify opportunities to increase brand visibility and credibility through press, speaking engagements, and book signings for the Founder/Owner.
• Oversee content planning and support creative direction for video production, product development, and multi-channel communications across the company website, YouTube, social channels, and community newsletter.

Responsibilities

• Working with Founder/Owner, develop and maintain a rolling six-month plan for forecasting, targeting, and attaining sales.
• Support Owner/Founder with planning and key decision-making.
• Evaluate and implement systems and processes to optimize operations for efficiency and scalability.
• Oversee content strategy and implementation across video, social, the website, publications, products, etc.
• Analyze performance metrics (audience engagement, sales, distributor data, partnership ROI).
• Manage preparation for media, speaking opportunities, and appearances for Founder/Owner (e.g., talking points, cooking demos, etc.).
• Support customer-facing efforts across community engagement, and sales.
• Monitor and maintain quarterly competitor analyses and pricing strategy.
• Some travel will be required.
• US based applicants only.

Required skills and qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in a business development or related leadership role.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing business strategy.
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.
• Exceptional leadership and team development abilities.
• Proficiency in using Google Drive, Shopify, YouTube, Mailchimp, Metricool, and Google Analytics.
• Knowledge of current industry trends and market best practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to meet in-person or online (3-5 times per month), and/or be on set for video production days and photoshoots (3 days per month).

Preferred skills and qualifications

• Passion for food and experience in lifestyle and home brands.
• Experience with business development, brand partnerships, and audience growth.
• Experience with social media and influencer marketing.
• Background in DTC and wholesale e-commerce.
• Proficiency with data analysis and information systems.
• Experience managing hybrid teams.

This is a contract 1099 role and will not offer benefits. Preference will be given to applicants based in/around the Chicago, IL area.

Applying: This search is being conducted by The Noodle Collective. Please respond with a cover letter, resume, and 3 references to [email protected] with the subject line “Application: Business Development Manager for Food Entrepreneur” by May 1, 2026.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only. The Noodle Collective does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any job posting or information provided by third-party employers. Applicants acknowledge that all hiring decisions, employment terms, and interactions with potential employers are solely at their own risk. We do not guarantee job placement for any applicant. While we make reasonable efforts to verify the legitimacy of job postings, we cannot guarantee the validity of any position. It is the responsibility of each job seeker to research the integrity of the organization they are applying to and to verify specific information regarding any job posting. Exercise caution when applying. Do not provide sensitive personal information, such as your social security number, banking details, or credit card information, to prospective employers. By responding to an open call, you agree to release The Noodle Collective, its employees, and its affiliates from all claims, liability, damages, or other responsibility arising from your use of this job board. Employers are solely responsible for the accuracy and truthfulness of their job postings, ensuring they represent real openings and comply with anti-discrimination and equal employment opportunity laws. The job board does not guarantee specific application numbers or candidate suitability.

Pay: $4,500.00 - $8,000.00 per month

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Oak Park, IL 60302