Director of Strategic Partnerships & Business Development

Director of Strategic Partnerships & Business Development Kahani Social Group is one of Texas' fastest-growing hospitality companies, operating award-winning restaurants, catering, private dining experiences, and hospitality ventures throughout the Houston market. Our portfolio includes acclaimed concepts such as Amrina, Kitchen Rumors, Kindred Table, Pok Pok Po, bōl, Jashn Social Bespoke Catering, and a growing collection of hospitality assets. We are seeking a highly connected, entrepreneurial, and results-driven Director of Business Development to help drive the next phase of growth across our restaurant, catering, and events. This is not a traditional restaurant sales role. We are looking for a strategic relationship builder who can create new revenue opportunities, establish partnerships, develop corporate accounts, and position our brands as the preferred choice for dining, catering, events, and hospitality experiences throughout Houston. Position Overview The Director of Business Development will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, and converting new business opportunities across multiple business lines including: Corporate Catering Private Dining Special Events Sponsorships & Partnerships Executive Dining Programs Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Events Holiday Parties Weddings & Social Events Community Partnerships This individual will serve as an ambassador for the organization and will be expected to spend significant time in the market building relationships and generating new business. Success in this role will be measured by revenue growth, new account acquisition, strategic partnerships, and long-term client retention. Key Responsibilities Business Development & Sales Develop and execute a comprehensive business development strategy across all brands and business units. Generate new corporate accounts and strategic partnerships throughout the Houston market. Prospect and cultivate relationships with: Corporate executives Executive assistants Office managers Event planners Human resource professionals Healthcare organizations Pharmaceutical representatives Chambers of commerce Community organizations Real estate and development groups Identify opportunities for recurring catering, dining, and hospitality business. Build a robust sales pipeline and maintain accurate CRM records. Lead site visits, tastings, presentations, and client meetings. Strategic Partnerships Establish preferred vendor relationships with businesses and organizations throughout Houston. Develop referral partnerships with event planners, concierge services, apartment communities, and corporate partners. Create innovative programs that drive repeat business and customer loyalty. Identify sponsorship and community engagement opportunities that increase brand awareness and revenue. Revenue Generation Collaborate with restaurant, hotel, catering, and operations teams to maximize revenue opportunities. Cross-sell services across all company brands and business units. Develop annual account plans for key clients and strategic partners. Negotiate contracts and secure high-value agreements. Market Presence Represent the company at networking events, industry functions, charitable events, and community gatherings. Serve as a visible and active presence within Houston's business community. Maintain a strong understanding of market trends, competitive activity, and emerging opportunities. Qualifications Required 5+ years of business development, sales, or strategic partnership experience. Proven track record of generating new business and exceeding revenue goals. Existing network of professional relationships within the Houston market. Strong prospecting, negotiation, and closing skills. Excellent communication and presentation abilities. Experience managing a sales pipeline and CRM system. Ability to work independently with an entrepreneurial mindset. Preferred Experience in one or more of the following: Luxury hospitality Hotels and resorts Catering and events Private clubs Healthcare or pharmaceutical sales Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is: A natural relationship builder Highly connected within Houston's business community Comfortable prospecting and generating new opportunities Equally effective in boardrooms, networking events, and client meetings Strategic, resourceful, and self-motivated Focused on long-term partnerships rather than transactional sales Most importantly, this person wakes up every day looking for new opportunities to grow the business. Why Join Us? This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of one of Houston's most exciting hospitality companies. You will have the ability to drive growth across multiple brands, build meaningful partnerships, and directly influence the success of a diverse portfolio that spans restaurants, catering, events, and hospitality. If you are a relationship-driven business developer who thrives on creating opportunities and building lasting connections, we want to hear from you. Kahani Social Group Creating memorable experiences through hospitality, culinary excellence, and meaningful connections. Have you worked in Hospitality Sales or Business Development previously?* #J-18808-Ljbffr