QSR Account Manager

Arning Companies are seeking a dynamic, high-energy Account Manager – Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) to join our team and drive meaningful growth in our QSR partnerships. In this role, you will serve as the primary trusted advisor to our QSR clients—ranging from franchisees and multi-unit operators to regional and corporate decision-makers—helping them leverage Arning's integrated "One Company, One Solution" approach to accelerate openings, reduce construction complexity, and create standout drive-thru and storefront experiences that align with today's fast-paced, customer-focused QSR landscape.

Your mission goes beyond traditional account management: you will become an indispensable strategic partner who deeply understands the intense demands of high-volume, low-margin food service operations—where every second counts, uptime is non-negotiable, and brand consistency drives loyalty.

Key Responsibilities

• Relationship Management — Cultivate and nurture long-term, trust-based relationships with key stakeholders including franchise owners, multi-unit operators, regional managers, construction directors, and corporate procurement/executive teams. Serve as their go-to expert for Arning's full portfolio of QSR solutions.
• Strategic Account Growth — Proactively identify and pursue opportunities to expand existing accounts through upselling and cross-selling complementary products/services (e.g., drive-thru canopies, modular kiosks, branded awnings, walkway covers, or panelized elements) that directly address QSR priorities such as faster build times, improved customer throughput, enhanced brand visibility, labor efficiency, and site aesthetics.
• Performance & Business Reviews — Lead quarterly or semi-annual Business Reviews with clients, leveraging data, project metrics, ROI analyses, and industry benchmarks to demonstrate tangible value delivered and align on future opportunities. Translate complex construction and manufacturing insights into clear, actionable recommendations for busy operators and executives.
• Issue & Conflict Resolution — Act as the rapid-response "firefighter" for any project or service challenges, coordinating internally across engineering, manufacturing, and installation teams to resolve issues swiftly and maintain the 24/7 operational reliability that QSRs demand.
• Industry Leadership & Proactive Consulting — Stay ahead of evolving QSR trends—including drive-thru innovations, digital kiosk integration, third-party delivery infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, modular construction advancements, and brand refresh cycles—to deliver forward-thinking advice that positions clients for competitive advantage.
• Pipeline & Forecasting — Collaborate with internal sales, estimating, and project teams to develop accurate forecasts, track opportunities, and contribute to overall QSR segment revenue goals.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience — 3–5+ years of proven success in account management, client relationship management, or business development, preferably within QSR/foodservice, hospitality technology, commercial construction, signage/branding, modular building solutions, or related supply-chain industries serving restaurants.
• QSR Mindset — You intuitively "get" the QSR world: a 30-second delay at the drive-thru window feels like an eternity, margins are razor-thin, labor shortages are constant, and speed-to-market can make or break a new location. You thrive in fast-moving, high-stakes environments where responsiveness and results matter most.
• Data & Analytical Acumen — Strong ability to interpret project data, construction timelines, cost analyses, and performance metrics; comfortable pulling reports and presenting insights in a compelling way to both field-level managers and C-suite leaders.
• Communication & Influence — Outstanding verbal and written communication skills with the versatility to deliver executive-level presentations one moment and build rapport over coffee with a franchise owner the next. Persuasive pitching and negotiation abilities are essential.
• Travel & Flexibility — Willing and able to travel up to 25–35% (including overnight stays) for client site visits, project inspections, industry trade shows (e.g., NRA Show, QSR-focused events), and regional meetings.
• Additional Preferred Attributes — Experience working with franchise systems, knowledge of commercial construction processes, familiarity with architectural/branding elements, and a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, construction management, or a related field.

Why Join Arning Companies?

Be part of a vertically integrated company with a 40-year legacy of excellence and a commitment to "One Company, One Solution" delivery that simplifies complex projects for our clients.

If you're a relationship-builder who combines strategic thinking with relentless execution—and you're passionate about helping QSR brands grow and succeed—apply today to become an integral part of Arning's QSR success story.