Client Relations Associate -- ME

RIDGEWELLS INC•Bethesda, MD

19h•$60,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

Ridgewells Catering is seeking a highly motivated, experienced professional to join our Major Events team as a Client Relations Associate. This is a highly visible opportunity for a hospitality professional who excels in complex, fast-paced environments and brings a proven track record of collaboration on large-scale projects. The Client Relations Associate will work with a portfolio of premier corporate clients, collaborate with members of the Client Relations team, and play an integral role in the planning and execution of some of Ridgewells' most significant major events. A primary focus of this position is the U.S. Open Golf Championship, where the Client Relations Associate will plan and execute a sophisticated corporate food & beverage program and help with Ridgewells' broader on-site operation. The position will also support two to three additional major events throughout the year. This multifaceted position primarily focuses on client relations for corporate clients for the U.S. Open Golf Championship but also has a hand in overall operations. This position requires the employee to be in office in Bethesda, MD. Some travel is required, including a consecutive 3-week period in June.

Requirements

1+ year(s) of experience in client relations, account management, hospitality, event management or project management.
Exceptional organizational, project-management and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with confidence interacting with senior executives and discerning clients.
A collaborative, positive and resourceful approach with a willingness to jump in wherever necessary to deliver an exceptional result.
Genuine enthusiasm for food, hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.
Ability to work extended hours and remain actively engaged on-site in outdoor event environments and varying weather conditions.
Proficient use of MS Office (specifically MS Excel and MS Publisher) and Canva with the ability to learn new computer programs quickly.
Ability to lift 20+ lbs.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in business, Hospitality, Event Management, Project Management or related field preferred.
Up to 20% travel, including up to 20+ consecutive days in June for a major golf championship.
Knowledge and/or interest in food is a must.

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of high-profile corporate clients, develop trusted relationships and provide guidance throughout the planning and execution process.
Develop polished proposals, presentations, menus and other client-facing materials that reflect the Ridgewells brand and standard of excellence.
Oversee designated hospitality village at the U.S. Open, maintaining Ridgewells standards while ensuring an exceptional experience for clients and their guests.
Use catering software to manage client information and create customized menus to reflect each client’s budget and needs.
Design individual service plans for each client inclusive of staffing levels, equipment needs and layouts.
Collaborate with the culinary department to research and develop innovative, new menu items that incorporate regional flavors and companies/brands.
Coordinate all internal tastings with various departments.
Collaborate with the operations team to ensure all client needs are accurately planned and delivered on-site, including equipment, beverage and service requirements.
Serve as the central liaison between clients and the other Ridgewells’ Major Events departments, including Staffing, Operations and Culinary.
Work with staffing team to develop labor projections and budgets.
Develop training materials and presentations for on-site event staff.
Train, manage and supervise front of house and back of house temporary on-site staff.
Handle all billing, invoicing and accounts payable functions for each client
Comply with all ServSafe, TIPs and HACCP guidelines
Performs other duties associated with the position that are reasonably assigned to support the overall needs of the business