Catering Sales Manager

Job Listing: Catering Sales Manager

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Location: We are seeking an experienced Catering Sales Manager for BC Place Stadium located in Vancouver, BC.

Job Overview:

The Catering Sales Manager is directly responsible for creating unique dining experiences by selling, up-selling and actively participating in the planning and production of catered functions. Working closely with clients, as well as with the sales, culinary and operations staff, they are responsible for ensuring that events are coordinated and executed smoothly and in accordance with all client expectations and specifications.

The Catering Sales Manager will focus on the development, implementation and measurement of the revenue objectives contained within the unit's annual marketing plan. They will direct and manage sales activities to meet revenue objectives and attain the top line financial forecast. This includes developing sales with existing business (forecasted group/local business) and executing strategies to develop new business.

The Catering Sales Manager will support the planning of and preparation for events according to anticipated attendance, and will provide hands-on management and oversight in the areas of service and F&B operations during events

Essential Responsibilities:

• Serve as primary liaison to Sodexo Live! clients' sales, marketing and event team; Work with client management staff in effective hand-off of venue customers to ensure positive relations and effective communication with meeting planners, group leaders and event organizers.
• Spearhead inclusion in site visits and fam trips.
• Work with clients to conceptualize and plan catered functions according to their specifications.
• Implement sales techniques to generate new business; Maintain on-going contact with existing clients and accounts.
• Identify and research prospective sponsors for solicitation.
• Create, present, negotiate and secure comprehensive, long-term sponsorship packages.
• Maintain client relationships and work to renew agreements prior to contract expiration.
• Fulfill all the terms of sponsorship agreements including, but not limited to, managing sign production, promotional elements, providing/ordering event tickets and coordinating food & beverage orders for suites.
• Maintain a database of all sponsorship prospects and detailed active and prospective account activity.
• Represent facility at business, community and social organizations and make sales presentations as required.
• Support marketing department at various functions, with on-site public relations, promotional activities and assisting with special events.
• Maintain detailed records of account payment activity and oversee billing and collections.
• Assist Catering Managers (or other operations managers) and Chef in planning menus and aid in the creation of specialty menus and theme functions.
• Prepare contracts to include all specified details concerning catered events.
• Establish and maintain accurate filing and posting systems for past, tentative and upcoming events.
• Communicate and disseminate critical event information to department heads and staff members and distribute detailed function sheets at weekly staff/BEO meetings.
• Work with selected vendors to arrange for the rental of tables, A/V, game equipment, linens and other needed items per event specifications.
• Book or recommend décor and entertainment providers such as photographers, florists, bands, speakers or specialty acts, as requested by customer.
• Assign accounts for group and local business to members of the sales team; Oversee daily function of the sales department and ensure the successful completion of all sales-related tasks.
• Guide, support and counsel sales staff; Execute responsibilities for hiring, training, scheduling, performance coaching, discipline, assessment and initiating pay increases.
• Ensure employees' compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations.
• Manage the financial performance of the department through development, analysis and implementation of sales plans and forecasts to minimize variances.
• Drive competitive set review and analysis.
• Assess opportunities and create action plans to improve sales, service, quality and profitability of venue.
• Seek out customer feedback and respond to customer needs to improve retail services; Intervene in instances of guest dissatisfaction.
• Perform other related duties, tasks and responsibilities as required from time to time.

Qualifications / Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in business, hotel/restaurant management or a related field, and/or appropriate combination of education and experience to support on the job effectiveness.
• 5-7 years of catering sales experience, with at least 3-5 years in a management role.
• Prior experience in a similar venue with more than $5M in food and beverage sales.
• Demonstrated financial acumen; P&L accountability and/or contract-managed service experience
• Must possess strong knowledge of food and wine for menu development.
• Must possess strong knowledge of food and beverage financials, operations procedures, controls and administration, as well as awareness and ability to perform all sales-related functions.
• Solid and proven track record for sales and leadership success.
• Tech savvy, with high proficiency in all Microsoft Office programs.
• Demonstrated success in interfacing with a variety of organizational functions and divisions to accomplish tasks.
• Flexibility, ability to work extended or irregular hours to include nights, weekends and holidays.

Other Requirements:

• Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly-quartered environment.
• Thank you for expressing interest in employment with Sodexo Live!. While only those candidates considered for this position will be contacted, your resume will remain on file for 90 days.

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.