Account Executive

RSVP Catering; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A catering company based in Fairfax, VA, is seeking an experienced Account Executive to manage client relationships and support sales initiatives. The ideal candidate will proactively generate catering opportunities, maintain long-term client partnerships, and oversee event execution. Successful applicants should possess strong sales and negotiation skills, excellent communication abilities, and a professional approach to client service. The role requires reliable transportation for client meetings and events, with potential for future hybrid work arrangements.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in catering, hospitality, or event sales.
• Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously.
• Professional, solutions-oriented approach to client service.

Responsibilities

• Proactively generate and manage catering sales opportunities.
• Develop and maintain long-term client relationships.
• Oversee the planning and execution of contracted events.

Skills

Sales and negotiation

Relationship building

Communication

Organization

Tools

CaterXpert

Job description

RSVP Catering is seeking an experienced and driven Account Executive to manage and grow client relationships while supporting senior-level sales initiatives and mentoring junior team members. This role is ideal for a hospitality sales professional who is ready to take ownership of accounts, contribute to revenue growth, and play an active role in the development of the sales team.

The Account Executive is responsible for proactively generating and managing catering sales opportunities, guiding clients through the planning process, and ensuring a seamless transition from sales to event execution. This role works closely with Senior Account Executives, Account Associates, Kitchen, and Operations to deliver exceptional events and long-term client partnerships.

What You’ll Do

• Proactively solicit and manage catering opportunities with moderate to high revenue potential
• Meet or exceed individual monthly and annual sales goals
• Identify opportunities to upsell menus, enhancements, and services while maintaining profitability

Client Relationship Management

• Develop, maintain, and grow long‑term client relationships across assigned markets or segments
• (e.g., Corporate, Weddings, Venues, Planners, Universities, Government, Medical, Associations)
• Lead client meetings, tastings, and site visits
• Serve as a trusted consultant to clients by understanding their goals and recommending creative, effective solutions
• Create and oversee accurate proposals, contracts, and events paperwork
• Ensure all event details are clearly communicated and turned over properly to Kitchen and Operations
• Review work prepared by Account Associates for accuracy and completeness

Event Planning & Execution Support

• Oversee the planning and execution of contracted events
• Participate in event walkthroughs and provide on‑site support as needed
• Conduct post‑event follow‑up to ensure client satisfaction and encourage repeat business
• Support and mentor Account Associates, providing guidance on proposals, client communication, and sales processes
• Collaborate with Senior Account Executives on larger or more complex opportunities
• Provide direction and clarity to internal departments to ensure event success

Marketing & Networking

• Participate in industry networking events, tastings, and client outreach efforts
• Contribute to sales and marketing initiatives aligned with company goals
• Assist in developing and executing account‑level or segment‑focused growth strategies

What We’re Looking For

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience in catering, hospitality, or event sales
• Strong sales, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities
• High level of organization and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously
• Professional, solutions‑oriented approach to client service

Preferred

• Experience managing or mentoring junior sales staff
• Familiarity with CRM and event management software (CaterXpert preferred)
• Experience working with high‑end or complex events

Transportation Requirement

• Must have reliable access to a vehicle for travel to client meetings, venues, tastings, networking events, and event sites throughout the Northern Virginia/DC area
• In‑person position based in Fairfax, VA (with potential for future Hybrid status)
• Collaborative, fast‑paced team environment with opportunities for leadership and growth