Business Development Manager – Food Services

About the role

Compass Group NZ is seeking a Business Development Manager to lead growth across its food service, catering and hospitality portfolio. Based in Parnell, you will own the end‑to‑end sales process, partner with Operations and Culinary teams, and act as a credible food‑led partner for clients.

Key responsibilities

• Win new business and achieve sales targets across food service, catering and hospitality.
• Manage the sales funnel and maintain CRM data with the same discipline used in culinary operations.
• Collaborate with Operations to retain contracts and improve client outcomes.
• Lead bids, proposals, food‑cost modelling, pricing and negotiations.
• Build senior‑level relationships with suppliers, distributors, industry bodies and decision‑makers.

Required profile

• Proven business development or commercial leadership experience in food service, contract catering, hospitality or food FMCG.
• Chef‑trained background with progression into F&B management or commercial roles.
• Strong understanding of food cost, menu engineering and delivering quality at scale.
• Extensive, active network across New Zealand’s F&B ecosystem.
• Sharp commercial judgement and ability to craft food‑led propositions beyond price.
• Excellent communication skills, credible in both kitchen and boardroom settings.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in hospitality, culinary, commerce or related field.

Required skills

• Food cost modelling
• Menu engineering
• CRM

What we offer

• Competitive base salary with performance‑based incentives.
• Vehicle allowance providing flexibility without a company car.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Career progression within a global organisation with strong local roots.
• Access to exclusive discounts, wellbeing support and employee benefits.
• Collaborative culture built on respect, growth and teamwork.