Catering Sales Manager

Onni Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a dynamic Catering Sales Manager to lead the charge in creating unforgettable events. In this role, you will engage with clients, manage event details, and ensure every aspect of the catering experience is tailored to their needs. Your expertise in vendor management and strong communication skills will be crucial as you negotiate contracts and collaborate with various hotel departments. Join a company dedicated to quality and innovation, where your contributions will help shape memorable experiences for clients and guests alike. If you're passionate about hospitality and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience in catering or hospitality sales preferred.
• Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Prospect and manage accounts for catering events and services.
• Negotiate contracts and ensure client satisfaction during events.
• Coordinate with hotel departments for seamless event execution.

Skills

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Vendor Management

Sales Skills

Client Relationship Management

Education

Experience in Hospitality Industry

2 years in a similar position

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

We are searching for a creative and motivated Catering Sales Manager to prospect and manage outstanding and unforgettable events. You will be responsible for securing new accounts and maintaining existing accounts while managing every part of the meeting/event preparations, such as choosing space, creating/approving menus, developing layouts, and evaluating success afterwards.

As the Catering Sales Manager, you should be well-organized and possess a sound knowledge of vendor management. Excellent communication and attention to detail skills are vital in this role, as our success depends on meeting our client's tailored requirements.

What Will You Do?

• Establish client base of individuals, organizations, associations, social, and/or corporate businesses through direct outside and inside sales efforts to secure business for the hotel, restaurant, and lounge to ensure budgeted revenues are met or exceeded.
• Actively prospect and qualify new business, while maintaining a proper balance of account maintenance and prospecting.
• Negotiate function space, and/or hotel services within approved booking guidelines.
• Drive function space optimization to ensure the best utilization of space for guest experience and financial performance of the department.
• Maximize hotel revenues through upselling.
• Detail all events by strategically planning and assisting clients in coordination of events, including menu selections, event design, and staffing.
• Accurately produce and review all sales contracts, rate agreements, banquet/catering event orders.
• Monitor and handle inquiry calls and provide client proposals in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures.
• Work closely and harmoniously with other hotel departments to facilitate the services agreed upon by the sales office and prospective clients. Disseminate sales-related information to other departments as appropriate.
• Welcome group contact upon arrival at function and ensure guest satisfaction.
• Monitor and ensure all functions are set up, refreshed, and broken down in compliance with scheduled times and departmental procedures.
• Arrange and conduct special events, site inspections, and off-site presentations for potential clients. Entertain clients in accordance with established hotel policies and guidelines.
• Provide overall direction, coordination, and ongoing evaluation of operations of the events sold.
• Work closely with banquet department on operations and event execution, ability to quickly evaluate alternatives and decide on a plan of action.
• Maintain client files and update information daily in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures. Produce monthly sales-related reports and sales forecasts.
• Attending and representing hotels at networking/industry events and trade shows.
• Follow up with guests regularly during and after departure to ensure satisfaction and secure future bookings.
• Promote teamwork and quality service through daily communication and coordination with other departments.
• Assist in developing and implementing catering sales budgets and actions plan.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You Bring:

• Knowledge of operations on the Hospitality Industry preferred.
• Experience 2 years in a similar position or field of work preferred.
• Must be able to stand in one place for extended periods of time, and to remain on feet for up to 8 hours.
• Technologically sound with Microsoft Office applications preferred.

For over half a century, Onni has been building communities for people to live, work, and play. Our success reflects our commitment to our employees and partners, and our dedication to quality construction, innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Our expertise expands across North America, with offices in Vancouver, Toronto, Los Angeles, Seattle, Phoenix, and Chicago.

How To Apply:

Please apply through the link on the job posting and attach your resume and any other required documents.

We thank all applicants for your interest in the Onni Group. Note that only those applicants under consideration will be contacted.