About Us

Mattson is one of the country’s most successful food and beverage innovation firms. For nearly 50 years, we’ve partnered with CPG, foodservice, and ingredient clients—from startups to global icons—to create breakthrough business opportunities.

We start with strategy and creativity—helping clients determine where to play and, more importantly, how to win. Then we stay with them all the way through execution: translating strategy into concepts, formulating early prototypes, scaling up and commercializing, testing with consumers, and creating and positioning brands for success. Our mission: to invent the future of food, one product at a time.

We’re a 65+ person, employee-owned company operating at a fast pace and united by a shared passion for food and beverage. A career at Mattson immerses you in food—because for us, food isn’t just our business; it’s our life.

About the Position

This is, first and foremost, a business and relationship development role.

As a key member of Mattson’s Relationship Leader team, you’ll identify and cultivate new client relationships, write proposals, and lead the engagements you bring in—supported by cross-functional experts in strategy, creative, product development, commercialization, and insights. You’ll thrive in Mattson’s collaborative, high-touch environment—working alongside passionate, hands-on colleagues who care deeply about client success.

As the senior Mattson leader in our Chicago Innovation Center, you’ll play a hands-on role in shaping the office’s growth. This includes managing a small team, mentoring staff, and fostering collaboration with our California headquarters. You’ll continue to build Mattson’s presence in the greater Chicagoland food and beverage community—fostering relationships in the region’s dynamic innovation ecosystem.

What We’re Looking For:

Deep, established relationships in the food & beverage industry—especially with decision-makers who could engage Mattson
Proven track record of success in product innovation and commercialization
Ability to take initiative, work independently, and drive results
Comfort and confidence selling Mattson’s full range of services one-on-one
Strong client management and project leadership skills
Enthusiasm for leveraging AI-driven innovation tools and willingness to embrace new approaches to innovation

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success in a similar business development and relationship management role within a client-service organization.

Skills and Experience We’re Seeking

Business Development: Proven success identifying, developing, and winning new client relationships through professional networks and strategic outreach.
Leadership: Ability to lead client relationships and internal teams—confidently recommending innovation, business, and product development strategies to senior F&B executives.
Creativity: Experience conceiving compelling product ideas that deliver on client strategy and presenting them persuasively.
Business Acumen: Strong analytical skills, including comfort building basic product P&Ls, anticipating challenges, and identifying sources of competitive advantage.
Broad Proficiency: Ability to sell and direct work across all of Mattson’s practice areas—from front-end strategy and concept creation through full development and commercialization.

About You

BA/BS in marketing, business administration, food science, nutrition, or culinary arts (a combination of business and technical experience is ideal) MBA strongly preferred
Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in food & beverage (consulting, brand management, sales, innovation, or market research)
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
Flexible, collaborative, and comfortable working across teams and disciplines
Ability to travel as needed with advance notice

What’s in it for You?

Joining Mattson means joining a company built on passion, creativity, and shared ownership. You’ll collaborate with world-class food innovators, impact leading brands, and help shape the next era of food and beverage innovation.

We offer a competitive compensation package, including:

ESOP participation (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
401(k), health, dental, and vision benefits
Sales incentive program
Annual bonus eligibility
Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
A fun, collaborative, and creative culture

Come work with us at our Chicago Innovation Center in West Town, one of the city’s most dynamic and food-forward neighborhoods. Join us and see why we’re the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Annual salary range is $160,000 - $210,000 per year.

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