Senior Catering Manager

Job Description

The Senior Catering Manager is a key sales and leadership role within O&B Catering, responsible for driving revenue, developing long-term client and venue relationships, and leading the development of complex, high-profile events. As an experienced member of the Catering team, the Senior Catering Manager manages a significant portfolio of business from initial inquiry through contracting and event planning, with a particular focus on large-scale and strategically important opportunities. They are expected to independently identify, negotiate and secure strong pieces of business while developing creative, thoughtful proposals that differentiate O&B in a competitive marketplace.

Beyond their individual portfolio, the Senior Catering Manager plays an important role in the overall success of the department. They contribute to sales strategy and forecasting, support key venue partnerships, identify opportunities for growth and retention, and provide mentorship and guidance to other members of the Catering team. This role is ideal for an experienced hospitality sales professional who combines strong commercial instincts with exceptional client relationship skills, creativity, organization and a collaborative leadership style.

The day to day:

• Manage a portfolio of corporate, social and high-profile catering business from initial inquiry through contracting and event planning, with a focus on large-scale, complex and strategically important opportunities.
• Independently identify, negotiate and secure valuable pieces of business while consistently working toward individual and departmental sales goals.
• Proactively identify and pursue new revenue opportunities, including key accounts, venue partnerships and strategically valuable business.
• Develop creative, compelling proposals that respond to client objectives, budgets and event vision while differentiating O&B in the marketplace.
• Take ownership of key client and venue partner relationships, with a focus on retention, account growth and increasing year-over-year business.
• Lead the planning of complex events, collaborating closely with Culinary, Operations and external partners to develop creative and operationally sound solutions.
• Maintain a strong understanding of event profitability and commercial considerations when pricing and negotiating business.
• Maintain a strong understanding of the sales forecast, identifying significant opportunities, risks and revenue gaps and working with leadership on strategies to address them.
• Identify and contribute to sales initiatives, promotions, partnerships and other opportunities that drive overall Catering revenue.
• Serve as a senior resource to the Catering team, providing mentorship and guidance on complex events, proposals, negotiations and client challenges.
• Support the onboarding, training and ongoing development of Catering team members and contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
• Represent O&B Catering at client meetings, site visits, industry events, trade shows and networking opportunities as required.
• Ensure event details, contracts, financial requirements and internal documentation are accurate, complete and communicated within established timelines.
• Model professionalism, accountability, collaboration and O&B hospitality standards while contributing to the overall success of the Catering department.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4–5 years of progressive experience in catering, event sales, hospitality sales or event management, with experience managing large-scale and complex events.
• Proven track record of meeting sales targets, converting significant pieces of business and developing long-term client relationships.
• Strong sales and commercial acumen, including experience with business development, negotiation, pricing, forecasting and account growth.
• Strong understanding of event logistics, staffing, rentals and operational considerations, with the ability to develop creative solutions that are both client-focused and operationally sound.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex opportunities and client relationships with sound judgment and minimal leadership support.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities with experience mentoring, training or supporting the development of colleagues.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with strong presentation, negotiation and relationship-building abilities.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple opportunities and events in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative, solutions-oriented and collaborative, with the ability to build strong relationships across Sales, Culinary, Operations and external partners.
• Professional and accountable, with the confidence to represent O&B with senior clients, venue partners and industry contacts.
• Legally eligible to work in Canada.

Additional Information

This is a current vacancy

Compensation: $73,000.00 - $98,000.00 base salary + commission estimated at $15,000 - $30,000

AI Disclosure

To ensure a fair and efficient recruitment process, some aspects of candidate screening may be conducted using AI software. All assessments and outcomes are reviewed by our hiring team to provide thoughtful, personalized consideration. We are committed to transparency and respect, ensuring a welcoming experience for every candidate.

Accessibility & Accommodation

Oliver & Bonacini is committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require accommodation or support during any stage of the hiring process, please let us know. We will work with you to ensure your needs are met in a respectful and timely manner.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

We value and embrace diversity in all forms and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Our recruitment practices are designed to ensure fairness, equity, and opportunity for every candidate.