Catering Sales & Events Manager at La Bahia Hotel & Spa

Ensemble Hospitality; California, Village of Port Jefferson (MO, NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a proactive Catering Sales & Events Manager to lead wedding and event sales at a premier luxury hotel. This role involves developing strategic plans to attract clients, managing event logistics, and collaborating with culinary teams to create unforgettable experiences. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, showcasing exceptional interpersonal skills and a passion for luxury hospitality. If you are ready to make your mark in the vibrant Santa Cruz event scene, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in catering sales or event management in luxury settings.
• Proven track record in wedding sales and event planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead wedding and social event sales, ensuring seamless experiences.
• Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with clients and vendors.

Skills

Catering Sales

Event Management

Contract Negotiation

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Budgeting

Revenue Management

Multi-tasking

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management

Relevant Certifications

Tools

Microsoft Office

CRM Systems

Event Management Software

Job description

Catering Sales & Events Manager at La Bahia Hotel & Spa

La Bahia Hotel & Spa, 215 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America Req #476

REPORTS TO: Director of Sales & Marketing

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

Salary Range: $70K-$75K

EFFECTIVE DATE: 02/13/2025

About Us:

Set against the stunning backdrop of Santa Cruz’s pristine coastline, La Bahia Resort & Spa is poised to become a premier destination for luxury hospitality and events. Our mission is to provide guests with unparalleled service, exquisite accommodations, and unforgettable experiences.

We are seeking a proactive and innovative Catering Sales & Events Manager to lead wedding and event sales, ensuring a seamless experience from the main event and room blocks to pre-wedding celebrations, rehearsals, and post-wedding brunches.

Position Summary:

The Catering Sales & Events Manager will be responsible for soliciting, selling, and servicing wedding and social event business while maximizing revenue opportunities across all event spaces, room blocks, and additional pre- and post-event experiences. This individual will work closely with the Director of Sales & Marketing to develop and execute strategic sales initiatives and partnerships to position La Bahia as the Monterey Bay destination for luxury weddings and events.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a strategic plan to attract and secure weddings and social events, with an emphasis on full-property event experiences.
• Actively prospect, solicit, and close wedding and event business through networking, inbound inquiries, site visits, industry events, and bridal fairs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for wedding clients, ensuring seamless communication and coordination from initial inquiry to event execution.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements for catering, event spaces, guest room blocks, and additional event-related services.
• Collaborate with the Culinary and Banquet teams to create cusrated food and beverage offerings for weddings and events.
• Collaborate with the Reservations Team to optimize room block management, cut-off dates, and attrition.
• Maintain strong relationships with wedding planners, event vendors, and industry professionals to generate referrals and expand market reach.
• Conduct site tours and client meetings, showcasing the resort’s offerings and tailoring proposals to meet client needs.
• Work closely with the Banquet Manager to coordinate event details, including set-up, staffing, and execution.
• Ensure all contracts, proposals, and billing are accurately maintained and communicated.
• Track event revenue and sales performance metrics, providing regular reports to the Director of Sales & Marketing.
• Represent La Bahia Resort & Spa at wedding industry events, trade shows, and community networking opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of catering sales or event management experience in a luxury hotel, resort, or high-end venue.
• Proven track record in wedding sales and event planning.
• Strong knowledge of hotel room block management and ability to upsell accommodations as part of event packages.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a passion for building client relationships.
• Experience with contract negotiation, budgeting, and revenue management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and event management software (Delphi, Opera, or similar preferred).
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and adapt to evolving client needs.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings, as required for events.

This is a unique opportunity to join La Bahia Resort & Spa’s opening team and play a key role in establishing it as the premier wedding and event destination in Santa Cruz. If you have a passion for luxury hospitality, wedding sales, and creating unforgettable experiences, we invite you to apply!

DISCLOSURE TO JOB APPLICANTS PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA CONSUMER PRIVACY ACT (CCPA)

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CATEGORY

EXAMPLES

BUSINESS PURPOSE

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2. To evaluate your job application and candidacy for employment;

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Employment History

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Education Information

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If you become employed by the Company, the Company will notify you of additional categories of Personal Information that it collects, receives, and maintains for business purposes.

• La Bahia Hotel & Spa, 215 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America