The Catering Sales Manager represents both The Grand and Little America Hotels with professionalism and expertise. This role is responsible for selling, planning, and managing events from initial inquiry to execution. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, client-focused, and experienced in coordinating a wide range of events, from intimate meetings to large-scale functions.
Responsibilities:
- Proactively solicit new and repeat business through networking, research, site tours, and RFPs
- Handle full-cycle event planning for groups of 15–2,000 guests, including corporate events, weddings, and social functions
- Customize proposals, negotiate contracts, and manage event details including menus, AV, room setups, and budgets
- Prepare contracts, Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), and event diagrams
- Communicate effectively with clients and internal departments to ensure event success
- Remain current on trends in food, beverage, and event design
- Be present onsite during key events to ensure smooth execution and client satisfaction
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Catering Sales
Qualifications:
Required:
- 3+ years of prior experience as a Catering Sales Manager within a hotel or full-service resort environment required
- Proven experience managing both corporate and social events, including meetings, weddings, galas, and large-scale functions
- Demonstrated success in selling, negotiating, and executing catering business from initial inquiry through event completion
- Experience with Opera Sales & Catering, Delphi, or comparable hotel PMS / event management systems required
- Strong understanding of Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), event diagrams, room setups, and hotel event operations
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong organizational, time management, and customer service abilities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Typing speed of 45+ WPM
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Professional appearance and polished demeanor
- Ability to work independently while adhering to company standards and policies
- Must be at least 18 years of age
Preferred:
- Experience working in a high-volume, luxury, or multi-property hotel environment
- Background in large-scale group, corporate, wedding, and social event sales
Work Environment:
- Full-time onsite position (not hybrid or remote)
- Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands
- Primarily office-based with on-property mobility to meet clients and coordinate events