Now Hiring - Food Fight, Inc. - Catering Sales Manager in Madison, WI

Full description of the position

Position Title: Catering Sales Manager Status : Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $65,000 - $75,000 - includes base salary and commission on catering food and beverage sales Position Summary: The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for driving catering revenue through strategic outreach, client development, and exceptional service, while collaborating with the operations team to ensure successful event execution. The candidate works directly with clients to understand their needs, proficiently detail event menus and logistics, and meet deadlines while working towards common goals of the business. Obtain events outside of building spaces through networking, outreach, and expansion into different sales markets. This position requires anticipation of project needs, discerning work priorities, and willingness to work some nights and weekends. Responsibilities: Sales and Business Development * Drive catering revenue through proactive sales outreach, client relationship management, and a strong presence in the local market * Identify and pursue new business opportunities both on and off campus, including corporate events, university departments, and community partnerships * Build and maintain a strong client base through consistent follow-up, exceptional service, and attention to detail * Represent Steenbock's on Orchard at networking events, industry functions, and community gatherings to expand brand presence and generate leads * Create and execute strategic sales initiatives to grow repeat business and maximize revenue potential * Track sales activity and provide regular updates and projections to management Event Planning and Production * Assist with negotiations for on-site and off-site space contracts, coordinate food and beverage, and manage vendor services such as rentals or AV * Propose new ideas to improve the event planning and implementation process * Leverage knowledge and experience in banquet management, decision-making, problem solving, and customer service to ensure successful events and deliver a high level of client satisfaction * Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the planning process and during key moments of the event. * Communicate all event details, updates, and changes clearly with FOH and BOH teams to ensure smooth execution. * Close out, invoice, and follow up on outstanding payments in accordance with policy. * Demonstrate professionalism and enthusiasm while representing the restaurant and Food Fight during client interactions. * Provide on-site support for select events--particularly with high-profile clients--to ensure expectations are met, and the guest experience is seamless. Event Administration: * Prepare proposals for service and event orders, in a timely precise manner * Assist with preparing budgets and provide periodic progress & sales projection reports to management * Coordinate appointments and tours of on-site & off-site spaces, tastings, and scheduling of events with remainder of execution team & clients as necessary Apply Today: If our culture and team sound like something you'd like to be a part of, apply today. Job Requirements: * Excellent communication and organizational skills * Ability to manage multiple projects at one time * Excellent interpersonal skills both in person and by phone, with high professionalism * Ability to accomplish projects with little to no supervision * Fantastic customer service ethic and high expectations for quality * Demonstrated success in sales or client development, ideally in hospitality, catering, or events * Experience using event management software * Minimum of 2 years of catering event planning experience required Additional Responsibilities: * Perform other duties, as assigned, to meet business needs.