Catering Sales Operations Manager

Sodexo•New Orleans, LA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Catering Sales Operations Manager Stirling Conference Center at the Pan American Life Center — New Orleans, LA Sodexo Corporate Services Are you a dynamic hospitality professional who thrives in a fast‑paced events environment? Do you enjoy blending strategy, creativity, and hands-on leadership to deliver exceptional client experiences? If so, we’d love to meet you. Sodexo Corporate Services is seeking an energetic and experienced Catering Sales Operations Manager to lead our catering and events program at the beautifully appointed Stirling Conference Center, located on the 11th floor of the iconic Pan American Life Center in the heart of downtown New Orleans. A Premier Events Destination in the Heart of the City Positioned along the vibrant Poydras Corridor and directly on the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar line, the Conference Centre on 11 offers unparalleled accessibility and visibility. We are steps away from key downtown landmarks—including the Hale Boggs Federal Building, U.S. Courthouse, and numerous local and federal offices. The world‑famous French Quarter is within a short walk, and the airport is only 14 miles away. The Conference Centre is equipped to host everything from executive board meetings to large‑scale conferences, featuring: 14 versatile meeting rooms A ballroom seating up to 90 attendees A modern amphitheater accommodating 200+ guests Full‑service, in‑house catering and professional event support This environment offers a unique opportunity for a motivated sales & operations leader to elevate our client experience and grow the catering program Incentives Predominately a M-F 8am to 5pm schedule with some evenings and weekends What You’ll Do As the Catering Sales Operations Manager, you will be the driving force behind our catering success—leading both sales strategy and event execution while ensuring flawless experiences that exceed client expectations.

Requirements

Proven ability to generate leads and convert inquiries into booked events
Exceptional client relationship management and follow‑through
Strong negotiation and contract management skills
Confidence delivering presentations, site tours, and proposals
Proven ability to generate leads and convert inquiries into booked events
Exceptional client relationship management and follow‑through
Strong negotiation and contract management skills
Confidence delivering presentations, site tours, and proposals
Creativity & Innovation
High energy and positive attitude
Strong sense of ownership and accountability
Flexibility—comfortable managing changing priorities and last‑minute needs
Professional poise and confidence in client‑facing situations
Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experienceMinimum Management Experience - 2 years Minimum Functional Experience – 1 year work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.

Responsibilities

Generate new catering and event business through outreach, networking, and relationship-building.
Respond to inquiries quickly and professionally; develop creative proposals and polished presentations.
Conduct site tours and meet with clients to understand event goals and tailor solutions.
Build and maintain strong partnerships with corporate clients, planners, and community organizations.
Negotiate pricing, contracts, and service packages to maximize revenue.
Track sales activity, pipeline health, and forecasting for leadership.
Collaborate with clients to understand objectives, guest counts, and dietary requirements.
Prepare detailed Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and communicate clearly with internal teams.
Partner with chefs on menu design and customization.
Organize event logistics including timelines, staffing, rentals, and room layouts.
Lead on-site event execution with a hands‑on, customer‑focused approach.
Oversee event setup, service, and breakdown to ensure a seamless guest experience.
Troubleshoot issues in real time and maintain a solutions‑driven mindset.