Overview
The Catering Sales Manager will be responsible for generating, managing and coordinating in-house catering sales and initiating, directing and implementing marketing functions in addition to handling wedding event logistics and operations at the Grand River Center from beginning to end.
This role will pay a salary of $40,000 to $45,000.
For FT roles: Benefits: Health, Dental and Vision insurance, 401(k) savings plan, 401(k) matching, and paid time off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).
Responsibilities
- Responsible for negotiating and submitting finalized contracts and Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to the Banquet Manager and Executive Chef
- Generates, negotiates and closes contracts on social, wedding, corporate, convention and gala events
- Oversees event coordination, will frequently represent the company as final decision-maker in matters pertaining to event execution including personnel, culinary, financial and operational matters
- Responsible for ensuring that contract signatures, cut-off dates, deposits and direct bills are accurate and that all contracts are processed in accordance with company credit policies
- Serves as primary group contact once the contract is signed
- Ensures that the group folders are in order and all master contracts are signed completely
- Responsible for independently resolving and approving any contract revisions while ensuring that price quotes are aligned with budgeted target product cost
- Responsible for authorizing and accurately communicating any BEO revisions to appropriate departments
- Promptly responds to all customer needs and inquiries in an efficient, expedient, and professional manner
- Develops event concepts from client’s visions and ideas
- Develops strong customer relations through frequent communication and the use of courteous and ethical interpersonal interaction
- Responsible for high-level oversight to ensure successful onsite catered events and customer satisfaction to encourage repeat business and referrals
Qualifications
- Associates of Arts/Sciences degree or Bachelor’s degree. A degree in event management, hospitality, culinary or similar field preferred. Equivalent industry experience will be accepted in lieu of a degree
- Three or more years’ professional experience in the food & beverage industry highly desired
- A valid driver’s license, or ability to acquire, to make outside sales calls and/or attend off-site events
- Demonstrated experience using independent judgment to make appropriate business decisions
- Advanced computer experience in a Windows format and typing proficiency with accuracy
- Experience with MS Excel, Word, and Outlook or email
- Excellent grammatical skills, and ability to provide accurate details orally and in writing
- A well-groomed professional appearance, and ability to positively represent the company with employees, client representatives and guests
- Ability to regularly be self-directed with minimal supervision and work in a team oriented environment
- Ability to work a varied schedule including evenings and weekends
- Ability to stand, walk and/or be mobile to move from the office location to the event location in a large facility.