Foodservice Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Foodservice Design Manager

Company: BallenIsles Country Club (Operating as RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design - RFHSD)

Location: Newton, Massachusetts, USA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations - Design & Strategy

Date Posted: May 01, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce highly detailed technical drawings using Revit for foodservice and hospitality projects, ensuring adherence to established company design standards.

• Act as a key technical resource, supporting Design Project Managers in client communications, relationship management, and project delivery timelines.

• Drive assigned design tasks to completion with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, serving as the foundation for successful project execution.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design systems and processes, actively participating in workflow optimization and efficiency initiatives.

• Uphold and promote the company's mission, vision, and values, acting as a brand ambassador in all interactions with clients and colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Foodservice Design Manager," has significant operational responsibilities related to project execution, client relationship management, and process improvement within the design department. It requires a blend of technical design proficiency and operational project support, aligning it with GTM (Go-To-Market) and Sales Operations functions through its contribution to client acquisition and project delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Complete detailed technical drawings in the REVIT platform to meet established foodservice design standards, ensuring accuracy and constructability.

• Deliver the highest level of accuracy and attention to detail to ensure drawings are the foundation for successful project outcomes.

• Support Design Project Managers as the design lead on assigned projects, ensuring timely delivery of design deliverables.

• Assist Design Project Managers in client communications, providing technical expertise and support for relationship management.

• Take initiative to drive assigned task work to completion within established project timelines and scope.

• Communicate proactively and effectively with internal team members and external stakeholders.

• Work independently and collaboratively within a team, managing workload and schedule effectively to meet communicated deadlines.

• Maintain and update drawing sets as projects progress, incorporating necessary revisions and field queries (sk's).

• Collaborate on systems and process improvements for Design Development, contributing to departmental efficiency.

• Uphold RFHSD standards, processes, and procedures as they relate to the design department and project execution.

• Actively participate in fostering RFHSD's team culture, both internally and with clients, suggesting improvements where needed.

• Gain proficiency in communicating RFHSD's company mission, vision, and values and act as an ambassador for the brand.

• Support the RFHSD sales process through technical expertise, as beneficial and requested, contributing to business development efforts.

• Gain proficiency in Salesforce as a tool to manage project pipeline, business development, and sales activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed clearly indicate a need for strong project management and client-facing skills, alongside technical design expertise. The emphasis on "driving assigned task work to completion," "supporting Design Project Managers," and "upholding RFHSD standards" points to operational execution and adherence to established workflows, which are critical in GTM and Sales Operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years in a drafting or foodservice designer role with a proven track record.

• A relevant drafting portfolio is essential for demonstrating skill proficiency.

• Experience in commercial kitchen design is a strong requirement.

• Minimum 2+ years of hands-on experience with Revit is mandatory.

Required Skills:

• Revit Proficiency: Advanced skills in creating detailed technical drawings and models within the Revit platform.

• Technical Drawing & Drafting: Expertise in producing accurate and comprehensive construction documents.

• Commercial Kitchen Design: In-depth knowledge of foodservice equipment, layout principles, and operational workflow for commercial kitchens.

• Attention to Detail: Exceptional ability to ensure accuracy and precision in all design deliverables.

• Time Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects and tasks effectively, meeting deadlines consistently.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for client interaction and internal collaboration.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a cohesive team.

• Process Improvement Mindset: Proactive approach to identifying and implementing enhancements to design workflows and systems.

Preferred Skills:

• Hospitality Design Experience: Familiarity with design principles and trends within the broader hospitality sector.

• CAD Proficiency: Experience with AutoCAD for legacy projects or specific design tasks.

• Salesforce: Familiarity with using Salesforce for project pipeline management and business development tracking.

• Microsoft Workspace: Proficient use of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reporting and presentations.

• Architectural Degree: Formal education in architecture or a closely related design discipline.

• Hospitality Mindset: Understanding and appreciation for the nuances of the hospitality industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Revit, CAD, and commercial kitchen design, coupled with "3-5 years in a drafting or foodservice designer role," firmly places this within a mid-level technical role. However, the inclusion of "support Design Project Managers in client communications and relationship management," "support the RFHSD sales process," and "Salesforce use" indicates a need for operational awareness and contribution to business development, common in GTM operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Revit Project Examples: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex foodservice or commercial kitchen design projects completed using Revit. Highlight the scope, your role, and the technical challenges overcome.

• Technical Drawing Quality: Demonstrate a high standard of accuracy, clarity, and completeness in your technical drawings, including detailed equipment layouts, MEP coordination considerations, and specification references.

• Workflow Documentation: Include examples or descriptions of how you manage your design process from initial concept to final deliverable, emphasizing efficiency and adherence to standards.

• System Integration Examples: If applicable, provide instances where your designs considered or integrated with building systems or operational software, demonstrating a holistic approach.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Present 1-2 case studies detailing a specific design challenge encountered and how you applied your technical and operational skills to resolve it, ideally with quantifiable results or client satisfaction improvements.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow Mapping: Be prepared to articulate your typical design workflow, from client brief to final drawing submission, highlighting key stages, decision points, and quality control measures.

• Revit Standards Adherence: Demonstrate understanding of and ability to work within established design standards and templates, ensuring consistency across projects.

• Collaboration Protocols: Describe how you typically collaborate with project managers, clients, and other stakeholders to gather requirements, provide updates, and incorporate feedback.

• System Improvement Contributions: Be ready to discuss instances where you have contributed to improving design processes, tools, or methodologies within a team setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design-focused role with operational responsibilities, the portfolio should highlight not just the final output but also the process. This includes demonstrating proficiency in design software, adherence to standards, and an understanding of project timelines and client communication – all vital for operations roles. The request for "systems and process improvements" in the description further solidifies the need for a process-oriented portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $75,000 USD per year.

This range is based on the specified salary provided in the job description and is considered competitive for a Foodservice Design Manager role with 2-5 years of experience in the Newton, MA area.

Benefits:

• Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer match, available to employees aged 19 and older.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous paid time off accrual for work-life balance.

• Leaves of Absence: Eligibility for various leaves of absence in accordance with applicable law.

• Dog-Friendly Office: A unique perk for employees who enjoy working alongside canine companions.

Working Hours:

• Standard office hours are Monday through Friday.

• Flexibility in work schedule and remote work opportunities may become available after an initial 90-day period, reflecting a commitment to work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is explicit. The benefits listed are standard for full-time roles. The mention of flexibility and remote work after 90 days suggests a hybrid or flexible work arrangement, which is increasingly common and valued in operations roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality, Strategy, and Design Consulting. RFHSD operates within the broader hospitality sector, providing specialized design and strategic services to clients across various segments of the industry.

Company Size: Part of Troon, a global leader with over 900 locations. RFHSD itself is described as a "close-knit and dedicated team" operating out of a regional office. This implies a smaller, focused unit within a larger, established organization.

Founded: Troon was founded in 1990. RFHSD is an established firm within Troon, leveraging its parent company's long history and reputation in club management and hospitality.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: The role is within the Design Department, which is described as "close-knit and dedicated."

• Reporting: The Foodservice Design Manager will support Design Project Managers and likely report to a Design Lead or Department Manager.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration is expected with Design Project Managers, clients, and potentially business development/sales teams. The role also involves contributing to "systems and process improvements for Design Development."

Methodology:

• Revit-Centric Design: Primary design methodology revolves around the use of Revit for technical drawing and modeling.

• Standardized Processes: Emphasis on upholding RFHSD standards, processes, and procedures to ensure consistency and quality.

• Client-Centric Approach: Focus on client communications, relationship management, and understanding client needs to deliver successful projects.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouragement to collaborate on and implement improvements to design systems and processes.

• Data-Driven (Salesforce): Use of Salesforce to manage project pipelines and business development, indicating a data-informed approach to sales and project tracking.

Company Website: www.troon.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of RFHSD operating under Troon provides a strong foundation of industry experience and stability. The culture is described as team-oriented with a focus on excellence and work-life balance, further enhanced by the dog-friendly environment. This blend of a focused team within a large corporation is common for specialized operational units.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level specialist. It requires a minimum of 3-5 years of experience and a strong technical skill set in Revit and foodservice design. The "Manager" title in this context likely refers to managing one's own design projects and tasks rather than direct reports, though supporting Project Managers implies a level of responsibility.

Reporting Structure: The Foodservice Design Manager will report to a Design Project Manager or a Design Department Lead and will collaborate closely with a team of designers and project managers.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the successful delivery of client projects by producing accurate and timely design documentation. By supporting the sales process and using Salesforce, the role also contributes to business development and revenue generation for RFHSD. Efficient design processes and high-quality deliverables enhance client satisfaction and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Revit, advanced foodservice design techniques, and potentially other design software.

• Project Management Skills: Develop stronger project management capabilities by supporting Design Project Managers, with potential to transition into a Project Management role.

• Client Relationship Management: Enhance client interaction and relationship-building skills through direct support and communication.

• Business Development Acumen: Gain insights into the sales process and business development through Salesforce usage and supporting sales efforts, potentially leading to roles with more direct BD or strategy focus.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Take on more responsibility for leading or contributing to significant process improvements within the design department.

• Mentorship: As experience grows, potentially mentor junior designers or drafters.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role appears to be either deepening technical design expertise or broadening into project management and business development, leveraging the operational and client-facing aspects of the position. The "Manager" title, while potentially misleading regarding direct reports, indicates a level of autonomy and responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a regional office (Troon Northeast Regional Office) in Newton, MA. The description mentions a "flexible office model" and a "dog-friendly company and office." This suggests a modern, accommodating workspace designed for collaboration and comfort.

Office Location(s): Newton, Massachusetts, USA (02458). This location offers access to the Greater Boston area's talent pool and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The "close-knit and dedicated team" and "flexible office model" imply an environment that encourages interaction and teamwork, while also allowing for focused, independent work.

• Tools & Technology: Access to the necessary design software (Revit, CAD) and communication tools, including Salesforce for pipeline management.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design colleagues, project managers, and potentially other departments within the Troon regional office.

Work Schedule:

• Standard office hours are Monday through Friday.

• The company offers flexibility in work schedule and potential for remote work after 90 days, indicating a balanced approach to work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work potential and dog-friendly office are significant cultural indicators. For operations professionals, a supportive and flexible work environment is crucial for maintaining productivity and well-being, especially when balancing technical tasks with client interactions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an HR or recruiter screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Assessment: A review of your portfolio, focusing on Revit proficiency, technical drawing quality, and commercial kitchen design experience. This may involve a portfolio presentation.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Design Project Manager or Department Lead to delve deeper into your experience, problem-solving skills, and understanding of design processes.

• Team/Cross-functional Interview: Possibly an interview with other team members or a Project Manager to assess collaboration style and ability to integrate into the team.

• Final Interview: May involve a senior leader to discuss company culture, values, and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest foodservice or commercial kitchen design projects that showcase your Revit skills, technical accuracy, and understanding of operational flow.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially if it was a collaborative effort.

• Showcase Process: Include examples or descriptions of your design process, how you manage tasks, and how you ensure quality. This demonstrates operational thinking.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics or client feedback to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., efficiency gains, client satisfaction).

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss specific Revit features, design challenges, and your approach to common foodservice design problems.

• Tell a Story: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your solution, and the outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Revit Exercise: You might be given a short design task or asked to critique an existing design to demonstrate your Revit skills and design thinking.

• Process Scenario: Be prepared to answer questions about how you would handle specific design scenarios, manage competing deadlines, or resolve client issues, showcasing your operational approach.

• Salesforce/BD Questions: Given the mention of Salesforce and supporting the sales process, be ready to discuss how you would track project progress or contribute to client engagement from a design perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential technical challenges is standard for design roles. For this hybrid role, candidates should be prepared to discuss not only the technical aspects but also their approach to project management, client communication, and process efficiency, aligning with operational expectations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: The core software for detailed technical drawing and 3D modeling. Advanced proficiency is essential.

• CAD (AutoCAD): Required for certain tasks or legacy projects. Familiarity with its functionalities is necessary.

• Microsoft Workspace: Essential for general productivity, documentation, and presentations.

  • Word: For reports, specifications, and professional correspondence.
  • Excel: For data analysis, tracking, and basic project management.
  • PowerPoint: For presentations to clients and internal teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Salesforce: To be used for managing project pipeline, business development, and sales tracking. Understanding CRM principles is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Salesforce: Serves as a CRM and potentially a platform for tracking project stages and client interactions relevant to sales operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Revit is paramount. The inclusion of Salesforce indicates a move towards more data-driven project management and business development support, aligning with GTM operational functions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Commitment to Excellence: A dedication to producing high-quality work, both personally and in the output delivered.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively with colleagues, supporting project managers, and contributing to a positive team environment.

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging open and timely communication with coworkers and stakeholders.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for assigned tasks and driving them to completion with autonomy.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to collaborate on and implement enhancements to design systems and processes.

• Hospitality Mindset: An understanding and appreciation for the service-oriented nature of the hospitality industry.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Design Process: Working closely with Project Managers and potentially other design professionals to ensure seamless project execution.

• Client-Focused Communication: Engaging with clients to understand needs, provide updates, and manage expectations effectively.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve designs and processes.

• Proactive Support: Willingness to assist colleagues and contribute to team goals beyond individual tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values emphasize quality, teamwork, and a proactive, accountable approach, which are all critical for effective operations professionals. The hospitality mindset is also a key differentiator for roles within this industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Depth with Operational Demands: Effectively managing detailed Revit work while also contributing to client communications, project timelines, and business development tracking.

• Meeting Evolving Client Needs: Adapting designs and processes to meet the diverse and often complex requirements of hospitality clients.

• Driving Process Improvements: Successfully identifying and implementing enhancements to existing design workflows within a structured organization.

• Mastering Salesforce: Becoming proficient in Salesforce for project and sales pipeline management, which may be a new area for some design professionals.

• Maintaining Work-Life Balance: Navigating flexible work arrangements and deadlines to ensure personal well-being alongside professional demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Revit Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Revit functionalities and BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows.

• Hospitality Design Specialization: Expanding knowledge of specific foodservice equipment, operational efficiencies, and design trends within the hospitality sector.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Gaining practical experience supporting Project Managers, which can be a stepping stone to formal project management roles.

• Salesforce and CRM Training: Developing skills in using CRM tools for business development and project tracking.

• Process Optimization Techniques: Learning and applying methodologies for improving operational efficiency within design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dual nature of the role, requiring both technical prowess and operational/business acumen. The growth opportunities are structured to develop these dual capabilities further.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for creating detailed technical drawings in Revit for a commercial kitchen. What are the key steps you take to ensure accuracy and completeness?" (Focus on process, accuracy, and Revit skills)

• "How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when working on multiple design projects with competing deadlines?" (Focus on time management, prioritization, and operational efficiency)

• "Walk me through a time you had to collaborate with a Project Manager or client to resolve a design issue. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and client management)

• "How would you contribute to improving the design processes or systems within our team?" (Focus on process improvement mindset and proactive contribution)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design, and specifically in this Foodservice Design Manager role?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company mission/values)

• "Our company values include commitment to excellence, teamwork, and a hospitality mindset. How do these values resonate with your own professional approach?" (Align your experience with company values)

• "How do you approach feedback on your designs, and what is your experience in collaborating with diverse teams?" (Assess adaptability and collaboration style)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best exemplify your Revit skills, technical design quality, and understanding of foodservice operations.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, present the client's need, your role, the design solutions implemented (highlighting Revit features), any operational considerations addressed, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Process & Collaboration: Briefly explain your workflow, how you ensured accuracy, and how you collaborated with others.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your drawings, design decisions, and technical choices.

• Connect to the Role: Frame your experience in a way that directly addresses the responsibilities and requirements of the Foodservice Design Manager position.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical design expertise and operational acumen. Candidates should be ready to discuss their processes, problem-solving abilities, and how they contribute to team goals and business objectives, especially concerning client management and tool utilization.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Foodservice Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the provided link on the recruiting portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your Revit proficiency, commercial kitchen design experience, and any relevant project management or client interaction experience. Showcase projects that demonstrate your attention to detail and process-oriented approach.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your years of experience with Revit, CAD, and foodservice design. Use keywords from the job description such as "Revit," "technical drawings," "commercial kitchen design," "project management," and "Salesforce." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review the job description and company information. Practice answering strategy and behavioral questions, focusing on your operational approach to design, problem-solving, and collaboration. Prepare a concise and impactful presentation of your portfolio.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Troon and RFHSD's mission, values, and client base. Understand their approach to hospitality design and strategy, and be ready to articulate how your skills and values align with their culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.