Catering Sales Manager | Full-Time | The Bushnell

Oak View Group•Hartford, CT

2d•$65,000 - $85,000

About The Position

The Catering Sales Manager drives catering and event sales at The Bushnell by developing new business, building and maintaining client relationships, and securing event bookings. The role manages the full sales and event coordination process, from initial inquiry and contract negotiation through event execution, working with The Bushnell Events Team, Operations, and Culinary teams to deliver seamless service and exceptional guest experiences. The manager must also be available to assist with general catering operations. The position pays an annual salary of $65,000–$85,000 and is bonus eligible. The role will remain open until December 31, 2026. Full-time benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) savings plan with matching; and paid time off, including vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays.

Requirements

3–5 years of experience in catering sales, event sales, hospitality, or a related field.
Proven ability to meet or exceed sales goals.
Strong negotiation, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by events.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
Experience selling catered events, private events, weddings, corporate events, or entertainment/performing arts events preferred.
Experience with event management or CRM/sales systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute strategies to increase catering, private event, and other ancillary sales revenue.
Coordinate event details, including menus, pricing, room layouts, timelines, staffing requirements, and audiovisual needs.
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the event planning process and lifecycle.
Identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking, prospecting, community engagement, and relationship development.
Manage sales from initial inquiry through contract, event planning, execution, and post-event follow-up.
Oversee event follow-up, client feedback, and opportunities for repeat business.
Conduct client meetings, tastings, and presentations.
Develop proposals, estimates, menus, and event packages based on client needs and budget.
Maintain accurate client, sales, and event information in applicable systems.
Build relationships with corporate, nonprofit, social, community, and other event clients.
Collaborate with Culinary, Operations, Event Management, and other departments to plan and execute events.
Monitor event details, budgets, guarantees, and final billing for accuracy and profitability.
Develop and maintain a sales pipeline and regularly report on leads, bookings, revenue, and sales goals.
Represent the venue and OVG at networking events, community functions, trade shows, and other business development opportunities.
Support marketing initiatives and promotions designed to increase catering and event bookings.
Monitor market trends, competitor offerings, and customer needs to identify growth opportunities.
Provide exceptional customer service and resolve client concerns professionally and promptly.
Assist with general catering operations and perform other duties as assigned.