Director of Outside Sales

Compass Group•Chicago, IL

2d•$75,000 - $85,000

About The Position

CULINAIRE provides upscale food and beverage management services to a very diverse collection of national accounts to include art museums, cultural landmarks, hotels, performing arts centers, restaurants, and special event venues. While our portfolio is diverse, the one constant in every operation that we manage is our total commitment to our associates to put their career path, safety and success as our top priority, as well as to provide sophisticated, delicious food and warm service to our guests. Job Summary The Director of Catering (Outside Sales) is responsible for generating new event and catering business for the Museum through proactive outside sales efforts. This position serves as the primary business development professional for social events, corporate functions, weddings, meetings, and community gatherings. Success in this role is measured by the ability to identify prospects, build relationships, create new opportunities, and convert those opportunities into booked events. This is a hunter sales position focused on developing new business. The Director will spend the majority of their time in the community networking, prospecting, conducting sales calls, attending industry events, and building strategic partnerships. This role is not responsible for managing inbound event inquiries generated by the Museum.

Requirements

Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a strategic outside sales plan to generate new catering and event business.
Prospect and secure new clients through cold calling, networking, referrals, site visits, trade shows, and community engagement.
Build relationships with local businesses, wedding planners, event planners, nonprofit organizations, convention and visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce, and community leaders.
Develop and implement a Hospital Network Partnership Program focused on building relationships with hospital department leaders, administrators, and key decision-makers. Position the venue as the preferred destination for meetings, training sessions, employee recognition events, fundraising functions, holiday parties, and special events.
Represent the Museum at industry functions, networking events, and community activities to promote the venue and catering services.
Conduct sales presentations, client meetings, and venue tours for self-generated prospects.
Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline and accurately track activities, opportunities, and revenue forecasts.
Identify new market segments and revenue opportunities to increase event sales.
Collaborate with Museum and culinary leadership to create compelling event experiences that meet client needs.
Negotiate contracts and close sales while achieving established revenue goals.
Maintain strong relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.