Event Sales Manager — Private Events & Growth

Big Onion Hospitality; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base salary with strong earning upside

Uncapped commission

Annual bonus

Health, dental, vision insurance

401k with employer match

Paid time off & holidays

Dining and venue discounts

Professional growth & development

Inclusive work environment

Job summary

Big Onion Hospitality in Chicago is seeking an Experienced Event Sales Manager to drive private event bookings, manage client relationships, and oversee the full event lifecycle from inquiry to post-event follow-up.

The ideal candidate excels in sales, communication, and hospitality operations, with a track record of achieving revenue targets and delivering outstanding guest experiences at in-person events.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of event sales experience in hospitality or related industry.
• Proven ability to meet or exceed sales targets.
• Proficiency in CRM systems (Tripleseat preferred) and event sales software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Availability to work evenings/weekends for events.
• Strong understanding of event operations and guest experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full sales cycle from inquiry to contract to execution and post-event follow-up.
• Conduct site tours and client meetings to showcase event spaces.
• Develop customized proposals and menus aligned with client needs and budgets.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, minimums, and service fees while maximizing revenue opportunities.
• Coordinate event details with culinary, operations, and management teams.
• Ensure exceptional guest experience before, during, and after each event.
• Generate new events and a book of business through outbound sales, networking, and inbound lead follow-up.
• Attend and support execution of key events and game day activations as needed.
• Build relationships with local businesses, offices, venues, and community partners.

Skills

Relationship building

Sales

Communication

Negotiation

Customer service

Tools

Tripleseat

Job description

Big Onion Hospitality in Chicago is seeking an Experienced Event Sales Manager to drive private event bookings, manage client relationships, and oversee the full event lifecycle from inquiry to post-event follow-up.

The ideal candidate excels in sales, communication, and hospitality operations, with a track record of achieving revenue targets and delivering outstanding guest experiences at in-person events.