Proposal Manager

Elior; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food service provider in Pittsburgh is hiring a Proposal Manager to lead proposal development and strengthen client partnerships. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in proposal management and is well-versed in project management and collaboration. Responsibilities include managing the proposal lifecycle, developing timelines, and producing polished, client-focused proposals. This position offers a salary range of $65,000 to $80,000 annually, along with growth opportunities in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in proposal management, proposal writing, or related roles.
• Experience supporting RFP responses or client proposal submissions.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and coordinate cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full proposal lifecycle for high-value opportunities.
• Create and manage detailed proposal timelines and project plans.
• Write, edit, and tailor proposal content to align with each opportunity.
• Format and design proposal documents using Adobe InDesign and Acrobat.

Skills

Proposal management

RFP responses

Proposal writing

Bid management

Marketing coordination

Project management

Collaboration

Storytelling

Strong writing

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Marketing, Journalism

Tools

Adobe InDesign

Adobe Acrobat Pro

Microsoft Office

Job description

Help us win new business and shape the future of food service

Join a team that helps deliver millions of meals every day across schools, healthcare facilities, senior living communities, and more. As a Proposal Manager, you will lead the development of high-impact proposals that help win new business and strengthen client partnerships.

This role is ideal for candidates with experience in proposal management, RFP responses, proposal writing, bid management, or marketing coordination who enjoy combining project management, collaboration, and storytelling to create compelling proposals.

You’ll work closely with Business Development leaders and cross-functional teams to develop polished, client-focused proposals that showcase capabilities and drive company growth.

What You’ll Do

Lead Proposal Development

• Manage the full proposal lifecycle for complex, high-value opportunities from kickoff through final submission ($1 million+ in revenue)
• Partner with Business Development Directors and subject matter experts to shape proposal strategy and messaging.
• Ensure proposals clearly communicate value and align with client needs.

Manage Projects & Timelines

• Create and manage detailed proposal timelines and project plans.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure deliverables are completed on time.
• Track progress and proactively address potential roadblocks.

Write & Develop Proposal Content

• Write, edit, and tailor proposal content to align with each opportunity.
• Adapt and improve existing materials from the proposal content library.
• Ensure proposals are accurate, compliant, and aligned with brand standards.
• Format and design proposal documents using Adobe InDesign and Acrobat.
• Ensure proposals meet RFP requirements and maintain consistent branding.
• Lead final quality reviews to deliver polished, client-ready submissions.
• Partner with teams across sales, operations, finance, and subject matter experts.
• Help improve proposal tools, templates, and processes to increase efficiency and win rates.
• Support proposal team members and share best practices when applicable.

A Typical Week Might Include

• Leading proposal kickoff meetings with sales and operations teams
• Developing proposal timelines and coordinating contributors
• Writing and editing proposal responses
• Formatting proposal documents in InDesign
• Reviewing final submissions to ensure quality and compliance

What We're Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in proposal management, proposal writing, marketing, communications, or related project-based roles
• Experience supporting RFP responses or client proposal submissions
• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and coordinate cross-functional teams
• Experience with Adobe InDesign, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Microsoft Office

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Marketing, Journalism, or related field
• Experience in food service, hospitality, healthcare, or multi-site service industries
• Familiarity with healthcare or operational RFP responses

Where You'll Be Working

The position will be based at Elior’s regional hub in Pittsburgh (zip code 15108), which is scheduled to open later in 2026.

Schedule: Monday – Thursday onsite, remote Fridays

Compensation

$65,000 – $80,000 annually, based on experience.

About Elior North America:

Elior North America is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in fostering an environment of growth.

At Elior North America, we are committed to offering growth and advancement opportunities for all of our employees. The valuable skills and experience you’ve gained with Elior will propel you further in your career, whether with our corporate office or one of our brand segments.