Catering Sales Manager (Greater Chicago)

Nando’s•Oak Brook, IL

7d•$80,000 - $135,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Catering Sales Manager (CSM) is a key revenue-driving leader responsible for accelerating catering growth through proactive sales strategies, strong relationship development, and seamless event execution. This role is specifically designed to support the Greater Chicago region, ensuring focused growth and relationship management within this key market. This blends outside sales, account management, strategic planning, and operational coordination to expand Nando’s catering portfolio and deliver exceptional guest experiences. Working cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Training, and Finance, this role helps shape catering strategy, optimizes sales processes, and ensures restaurants are equipped to execute at the highest level. As a hands-on growth leader, the Catering Sales Manager drives new business development, builds long-term client partnerships, and strengthens Nando’s presence in key markets—ultimately ensuring sustainable revenue growth and a world-class catering experience for every guest. Success in this role is measured by year-over-year sales growth, new account acquisition, revenue retention, and the profitability of catering events. The position earns a base salary plus commission and year-end kicker bonus.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; culinary or hospitality background preferred.
3–5 years of experience in catering sales, hospitality, or restaurant marketing.
Experience executing catering events and managing client relationships.
Proven ability to build and grow a client base.
Strong communication skills—phone, email, and in-person.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and catering software.
ServSafe Manager Certification preferred (or ability to obtain within 60 days).
Ability to manage multiple projects, clients, and timelines simultaneously.
Comfortable rolling up sleeves and working alongside restaurant teams to deliver catering orders.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally.
Valid driver’s license and clear driving record required. Access to a reliable vehicle is preferred
Ability to commute between multiple restaurant locations for up to 50% of the time.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a quarterly catering sales plan targeting corporate clients, schools, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses.
Achieve or exceed quarterly and annual catering revenue targets.
Actively prospect, qualify, and close new catering accounts through cold outreach, tastings, networking, and in-person visits.
Secure recurring catering contracts with businesses, medical offices, property managers, event planners, and corporate clients.
Grow incremental revenue from existing clients through upselling, repeat bookings, and loyalty-building strategies.
Deliver accurate sales forecasts, pipeline reports, and growth projections.
Maintain and update client database using catering software.
Collaborate on innovative ideas to boost catering sales and brand awareness.
Create tailored proposals and event plans that reflect Nando’s brand standards.
Attend local business events, networking functions, and trade shows to represent the brand and expand the catering footprint.
Partner with Operations to identify the best restaurants to fulfill catering orders and ensure each location is fully equipped and trained.
Coordinate event logistics, delivery timing, and execution details with restaurant leaders.
Ensure all food, packaging, setup, and service elements reflect Nando’s high standards for quality, safety, and presentation.
Support restaurants with onsite execution when needed for large or high-profile events.
Champion an exceptional guest experience from initial inquiry to post-event follow-up.
Train, coach, and support restaurant teams on all aspects of catering—service standards, order execution, packaging and presentation, upselling techniques, and event readiness—to ensure flawless delivery and consistency across units.
Partner closely with Area Directors to reinforce accountability, identify opportunities, and ensure each restaurant is fully equipped to grow and retain catering business.
Actively represent Nando’s brand and culture at tastings, presentations, and community events.
Build relationships with influencers and strategic partners to amplify catering visibility.
Support influencer programs with catering activations, gifting, and reporting.
Manage guest loyalty program to bring catering clients into the Nando’s brand circle
Analyze customer sales patterns to inform marketing, menu evolution, and promotional strategies.
Share insights and recommendations to improve catering operations and guest experience.