Now Hiring - L.A. Jackson - Professional Services Events Sales Manager in Nashville, TN

Full description of the position

Craft cocktails & creative small plates in a swanky rooftop bar at the Thompson Nashville hotel. QED Hospitality is a restaurant operations management group, focused on running Food & Beverage operations in boutique hotels and exclusive sites nationally. We bring our operational acumen to the table, developing and managing restaurants tailored to the hotel, the region and the demands of the market. These are not cookie cutter concepts, but true restaurants born of the region and based on our history. We are seeking a driven, detail-oriented, and hospitality-focused Sales Manager to lead private dining, catering, and special events from sales through execution. This role is responsible for generating revenue through proactive prospecting and client relationship management while ensuring flawless coordination with culinary, operations, and banquet teams to deliver exceptional food and beverage experiences. This position serves as the primary liaison between clients and internal teams, overseeing every aspect of events--from initial inquiry and site tours through planning, execution, and final billing. * KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Sales & Client Management * Prospect, secure, and grow new private dining, catering, and special event business * Build and maintain strong client relationships through proactive outreach and follow-up * Conduct site tours and communicate detailed notes for the client * Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the planning and execution process * Ensure all paperwork and documentation is finalized and closed Event Planning & Coordination * Plan and coordinate events in collaboration with clients, culinary, and operations teams * Create detailed Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and ensure all elements are executed precisely * Attend and participate in weekly BEO meetings, ensuring all action items are completed Event Execution & Operations * Troubleshoot issues in real time while maintaining service excellence and guest satisfaction * Ensure all events meet QED Hospitality's food, beverage, and service standards * Maintain professional appearance, dress, and grooming standards at all times QUALIFICATIONS : REQUIRED * Must be at least 18 years of age * Minimum 2 years of experience Sales Management * Proven experience managing private events in high-volume restaurants, fine dining, or luxury hospitality environments * Demonstrated success in selling, negotiating, prospecting, and presenting * Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage forecasts and booked business * Thorough knowledge of food and beverage products, preparation, and presentation * Extensive knowledge of Food & Beverage etiquette, guest relations, and service standards * Strong organizational, coordination, and time-management skills * Ability to read and execute BEOs with precision * Proficient computer skills * Dynamic, enthusiastic, and creative leader who thrives under pressure and can multitask effectively * Ability to work 50-55 hours per week * Flexible availability including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays PREFERRED * Bachelor's Degree preferred; however, equivalent education and experience within luxury hotel Catering, Sales, and Convention Services will be considered * Experience with Envision and OpenTable * PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: Must be able to maneuver to all areas of the restaurant. Must be able to meet the physical demands of the position (standing/walking up to 12 hours, ability to lift up to 50 lbs). Must have a manual dexterity and coordination to operate restaurant and office equipment and machines. Must be able to work at a fast pace and in stressful situations. Must be able to respond to visual and aural cues.