Catering Sales Manager

Compass Group•Chicago, IL

2d•$70

About The Position

Wolfgang Puck Catering is seeking a Catering Sales Manager to lead the sales, planning, and execution of exceptional catering experiences at the Harper Center in Chicago. This role blends relationship‑driven sales, strategic prospecting, and hands‑on event execution, partnering closely with culinary and operations teams to deliver memorable events for corporate and social clients. The Catering Sales Manager plays a key role in growing the catering business, managing client relationships from initial inquiry through successful event delivery, and ensuring financial and service excellence. The schedule is primarily Monday–Friday, with occasional weekend events based on business needs.

Requirements

Experience in catering sales, hospitality sales, or event management, with demonstrated success meeting or exceeding sales goals
Ability to prospect, develop new business, and grow existing client relationships
Knowledge of current food, beverage, and hospitality trends, including fine‑dining service standards
Experience developing menu proposals in partnership with chefs
Comfort supervising or supporting food preparation, service, and event execution
Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills
Ability to remain adaptable and calm in a fast‑paced, event‑driven environment
Experience leading, training, or coaching team members
Working knowledge of A/V equipment setup and breakdown for events
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, with overall strong computer skills
A proactive, client‑focused mindset with a high level of integrity and professionalism
At least three years of experience in the hospitality industry, including catering or event sales experience

Responsibilities

Drive catering sales through active prospecting, client outreach, and relationship building
Manage the full lifecycle of catering events, from inquiry and proposal through execution and post‑event follow‑up
Create customized menus and pricing in collaboration with culinary leadership, ensuring alignment with client needs and budget goals
Prepare proposals, contracts, and Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) with strong attention to detail
Plan, book, and coordinate catering functions, ensuring seamless communication across sales, culinary, and operations teams
Develop and manage catering budgets, forecasts, and financial targets
Monitor labor and food costs to support profitability while maintaining service excellence
Build and maintain a local client database and cultivate strong relationships with vendors and partners
Oversee on‑site event execution, including setup, service, and breakdown, as needed
Hire, train, and support managers and team members, contributing to a collaborative and inclusive work environment
Ensure compliance with all safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards
Prepare operational reports and assist with receivables and financial tracking
Support special projects and additional responsibilities as business needs evolve