Director of Catering Sales - Savannah Convention Center

Sodexo Live! (Salary)•Savannah, GA

About The Position

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal. Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment. Location: We are seeking an experienced Director of Catering Sales for the Savannah Convention Center in Savannah, GA. Unit Description: The Savannah Convention Center is a large, modern, waterfront event complex located on Hutchinson Island, directly across the Savannah River from Savannah's Historic District. It is one of the premier meeting and exhibition venues in the southeastern United States. Principal Function: The Director of Catering Sales is the senior leader responsible for driving catering sales strategy, client development, and event revenue growth for the venue. This role oversees the catering sales team and partners with culinary and operations leaders to deliver seamless, world-class experiences for our clients and guests. The Director of Catering Sales will focus on curating and upselling the perfect food and beverage menu by developing and executing strategic sales initiatives, building strong client relationships, and ensuring the catering sales team consistently meets and exceeds revenue and service goals. They will serve as the primary liaison for high-profile clients, industry partners, and community stakeholders, while ensuring alignment with Sodexo Live!'s brand standards, financial objectives, and guest experience commitments.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business, hospitality management, marketing, or related field (or equivalent experience).
4+ years of progressive experience in catering or event sales in a leadership role.
Proven success managing catering sales for a large-scale venue or operation.
Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.
In-depth knowledge of catering sales, menu development, food & beverage operations, and event logistics.
Demonstrated ability to lead teams, motivate staff, and achieve ambitious sales targets.
Strong client relationship management skills with experience securing and retaining major accounts.
Tech-savvy with proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume, deadline-driven environment.
Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly-quartered environment.
Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

Drive catering food and beverage sales by developing, promoting, and selling package offerings to corporate, social, and special event clients.
Collaborate with the Executive Chef and culinary team to design creative, on-trend, and profitable menu packages that align with client needs and event themes.
Upsell enhancements such as specialty bars, premium wine and beverage selections, upgraded menu options, and interactive food experiences to maximize per-event revenue.
Build and maintain strong client relationships by understanding their food and beverage preferences, budgets, and event goals, ensuring tailored proposals that meet expectations.
Prepare detailed catering proposals, contracts, and pricing models with an emphasis on menu selection, beverage service, and package customization.
Conduct tastings, menu presentations, and consultations with clients to guide them toward premium selections.
Partner closely with culinary, banquet, and operations teams to ensure seamless execution of all catered food and beverage elements.
Monitor catering sales performance, track package profitability, and provide regular reporting and forecasting to senior leadership.
Stay current on food, beverage, and hospitality trends to continuously innovate catering package offerings and maintain a competitive edge.
Represent Sodexo Live! at client-facing meetings, networking events, and industry functions to promote catering capabilities and build new relationships.
Lead, mentor, and develop the catering sales team, fostering strong product knowledge, upselling skills, and a service-focused culture.
Ensure all food and beverage sales practices meet Sodexo Live! standards, financial objectives, and client service expectations.