Event Catering Sales Executive

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Commission structure

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth invites an experienced Event Catering Sales Executive to drive new business, nurture client relationships, and meet ambitious sales targets in the Eastern Cape.

You will identify leads, present bespoke catering solutions, close deals for corporate, private, and social events, and collaborate with operations to ensure seamless event execution. Join a dynamic team that values service excellence and professional growth.

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of proven sales experience in catering/hospitality/events.
• Proven success in meeting/exceeding sales targets in a competitive market.
• Excellent negotiation, presentation, and closing skills.
• Strong understanding of the catering and event planning process.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with ability to build rapport with clients.
• Proficiency with CRM software and sales management tools.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within corporate, private, and social event markets in Port Elizabeth and surrounding areas.
• Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline through proactive lead generation, networking, and client relationship management.
• Conduct professional consultations with prospective clients, understanding their needs and proposing tailored catering solutions.
• Prepare and present proposals, quotations, and contracts with clear pricing.
• Negotiate terms and close sales to meet or exceed targets.
• Collaborate with operations and culinary teams to ensure seamless event execution and client satisfaction.
• Stay informed about market trends and industry innovations to identify new sales opportunities.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to generate leads and represent the company.

Skills

Sales experience

Negotiation

Presentation

Closing deals

CRM software

Communication

Self-starter

Independence

Flexibility

Catering knowledge

Tools

CRM software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected and rapidly expanding catering company in Port Elizabeth, is seeking a motivated and results-driven Event Catering Sales Executive. This dynamic role involves driving new business development, cultivating strong client relationships, and achieving ambitious sales targets. You will be responsible for identifying potential leads, presenting bespoke catering solutions, and closing deals for a wide range of events, from corporate functions to private celebrations. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional sales acumen, a deep understanding of the catering industry, and a passion for delivering outstanding service. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth of a leading catering service in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the corporate, private, and social event markets in Port Elizabeth and surrounding areas.
• Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline through proactive lead generation, networking, and client relationship management.
• Conduct professional consultations with prospective clients, understanding their needs and proposing tailored catering solutions.
• Prepare and present compelling proposals, quotations, and contracts, clearly outlining services and pricing.
• Negotiate terms and close sales to meet or exceed individual and team targets.
• Build and nurture long-term relationships with key clients, ensuring repeat business and client satisfaction.
• Collaborate with the operations and culinary teams to ensure seamless event execution and client expectations are met or exceeded.
• Stay informed about market trends, competitor activities, and industry innovations to identify new sales opportunities.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to represent the company and generate leads.
• Provide feedback to management on market intelligence and client requirements.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4-6 years of proven sales experience, preferably within the catering, hospitality, or events industry.
• Demonstrated success in achieving and exceeding sales targets in a competitive market.
• Excellent negotiation, presentation, and closing skills.
• Strong understanding of the catering and event planning process.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with clients.
• Proficiency in CRM software and sales management tools.
• A proactive, self-starter attitude with a high degree of motivation and resilience.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Flexibility to attend client meetings and site visits, potentially outside of standard business hours in Port Elizabeth.
• A passion for food, service, and creating memorable event experiences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive base salary plus an attractive commission structure, along with comprehensive medical aid benefits.
• This role provides a significant opportunity for career advancement within a growing company and the chance to work on diverse and exciting events throughout the Eastern Cape region.
• You will join a supportive and professional team dedicated to excellence.
• We believe in investing in our employees and offer ongoing professional development to help you achieve your career goals.
• Enjoy a dynamic work environment where your sales achievements are recognized and rewarded.