Now Hiring - Holiday Inn Express - Hotel Catering Sales Manager in Buffalo, NY

Full description of the position

Hotel Catering Sales Manager The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for generating catering and banquet revenue for a full-service hotel with multiple event spaces, food and beverage outlets, and comprehensive guest services. This role manages the entire event lifecycle--from initial inquiry and contract negotiation through event execution--while partnering closely with culinary, banquet, AV, and operations teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences and maximize revenue. Key Responsibilities Sales & Revenue Generation * Proactively solicit, negotiate, and book catering and banquet events, including corporate meetings, conferences, weddings, social functions, and group-related events * Maximize catering revenue through strategic pricing, upselling menus, bar packages, audio-visual services, and ancillary offerings * Maintain and grow a strong client base through repeat business, referrals, and local market engagement * Achieve and exceed established catering revenue, average check, and profitability goals Event Planning & Execution * Serve as the primary client contact from contract signing through post-event follow-up * Conduct site tours, menu tastings, and detailed planning meetings * Develop and distribute accurate Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and resumes * Coordinate with culinary, banquet, front office, engineering, and AV partners to ensure flawless execution Operational Collaboration * Work closely with the Food & Beverage team to ensure menus, service standards, and staffing align with client expectations * Be present for key events to oversee execution and address any service recovery needs in real time * Ensure compliance with brand standards, safety guidelines, and food & beverage regulations Forecasting, Reporting & Systems * Maintain accurate records in the hotel's CRM and catering systems (e.g., Delphi, Opera, Salesforce, brand systems) * Prepare weekly catering forecasts, monthly revenue reports, and pace analysis * Monitor booking trends and contribute to sales strategy and budgeting discussions Qualifications * Preferred minimum of 2-4 years of catering or event sales experience in a full-service hotel or conference center * Strong understanding of banquet operations, food & beverage service, and event logistics * Proven track record of meeting or exceeding catering revenue goals * Experience working with complex events, multiple stakeholders, and high guest counts * Proficiency in hotel sales and catering systems (Delphi, Opera, or similar) Skills & Competencies * Exceptional organization and attention to detail * Strong negotiation, presentation, and relationship-building skills * Ability to manage multiple events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment * Professional presence with a service-driven mindset * Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands Join our team where you can thrive! We are dedicated to achieving excellence in all aspects of our operations. Our commitment to enriching lives is reflected in every experience we provide. Through authentic service, we foster strong relationships with our guests, deliver value to our shareholders, and create memorable experiences. Our company provides equal employment opportunities to all associates and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Pay Disclaimer: The annual base salary range reflects the minimum and maximum salary available for the role in the specified location. Actual salaries may differ based on various factors, including geographic location, individual experience, and job performance. The salary range presented is one aspect of our comprehensive compensation package, which may also include bonuses, paid time off (PTO), a competitive 401(k) plan, and additional benefits. Pay: $62,353.20 - $64,000.00 per year Benefits: * 401(k) * Dental insurance * Employee discount * Health insurance * Life insurance * Paid time off * Vision insurance Experience: * Hotel Catering Sales: 2 years (Preferred) * Event planning: 2 years (Preferred) Work Location: In person