Event Coordinator/Catering Sales - Full Service Catering Team

Catering•Morton Grove, IL

About The Position

PURPOSE An Event Coordinator (EC) in our full service division is responsible for selling the Catering by Michaels full suite of services to both existing and new customers. The sales process includes the assessment, development, communication and administration needed to manage leads, generate proposals and close sales. The EC must be an enthusiastic, results driven professional who demonstrates the ability and passion for building relationships with existing clients, venues and sub-vendors, as well as seeking opportunities for growth and new business. ABOUT CATERING BY MICHAELS Catering by Michaels has been one of Chicago's premier catering and event companies for over thirty years. We are well known for our creative presentations, delicious cuisine and exceptional service. We are experts in logistics and operations and offer both full-service and drop-off catering with a variety of different price points and menu styles. Our robust industry software manages the integration of our sales, inventory, production and operations departments and the long-term experience of our professional management teams allows for a smooth and successful flow of communication, essential to the success of our company and our events. Catering by Michaels been honored to have catered some of the city's highest profile events including Lollapalooza, the NFL Draft, The Black Creativity Gala and the University of Chicago Alumni Weekend among many others. We also enjoy the distinction of being a member of the exclusive Leading Caterers of America organization.

Requirements

Degree from accredited institution or 4+ years of experience in high volume culinary sales
Experience with Caterease software
Minimum three years of successful high quality off-premise catering sales experience with a proven track record
Ability to sell, upsell and service events from 10-1000 guests
Active membership in at least one professional catering, hospitality or related organization
Considers themselves a "foodie" with great passion for food, wine and service and can sell it to clients
Works well with a team of culinary and operations experts to create efficiencies and maximize revenues
Knowledge of spirits, wine and beer
Strong multi-tasker
Excellent phone skills
Professional image & demeanor
Ability to manage large files, rebook events and communicate throughout BEO process
General business acumen
Demonstrated passion for the industry and thriving on exceeding customer expectations
Uncompromised dedication to customer service and follow through
Flexibility in schedule to include days, evenings, some weekends and holidays
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite & Outlook
Travel is primarily local during the business day, although some out of the area and overnight travel may be expected.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear.
The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, use hands, and occasionally reach with hands and arms to lift office products and supplies up to 30 pounds.

Responsibilities

Obtaining new clients
Maintaining existing clients
Proficiency in understanding menu items & portions
Monitors competitor products, sales and marketing initiatives
Establishes and maintains relationships with industry influencers and other key strategic partners
Attends menu, sales and production meetings as scheduled
Participation in networking groups and events
Represents company at trade association meetings and events
Collaboration with sales team
Proposals & order process
Contracts & invoicing
Accounts receivable
Proper communication via email & phone
Attending client events
Performs other duties, tasks and special projects as assigned