Event Sales Manager

Compass Group•New York, NY

11d•$75,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

Restaurant Associates, a leading provider of dining and event catering for prestigious institutions, is seeking an Event Sales Manager. This role is responsible for the strategic growth, planning, and execution of Marcel’s events program, blending sales leadership with operational expertise. The Event Sales Manager will oversee both internal and external events, ensuring each experience reflects Marcel’s standard of excellence and cultural identity. Working at the intersection of hospitality, culinary artistry, and client relations, this individual will lead the full lifecycle of events, from concept and proposal through execution and follow-up, while driving revenue, managing budgets, and building lasting client and partner relationships. Success requires a highly organized, detail-driven professional with strong financial acumen, thriving in a fast-paced luxury environment and delivering events with precision, creativity, and grace.

Requirements

Minimum of 2+ years in hospitality, including at least 1 year in catering or event sales within fine dining or luxury environments
Proven track record of achieving and exceeding sales goals
Strong understanding of food, beverage, and luxury service standards
Experience developing menus and proposals in collaboration with culinary leadership
Exceptional client relationship management and service orientation
Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
Ability to assess client needs and deliver tailored, high-touch experiences
Excellent leadership, coaching, and team development skills
Advanced organizational skills with a keen attention to detail
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including proposal development
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
Knowledge of A/V equipment and event production logistics
Ability to remain composed under pressure and adapt to evolving business needs
A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with high personal integrity and professionalism

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent professional experience

Responsibilities

Drive event revenue through proactive sales strategies, relationship-building, and business development
Conceptualize, sell, and execute private dining, semi-private events, full buyouts, and offsite experiences
Create customized proposals, contracts, and banquet event orders aligned with client vision and Marcel’s brand
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring a seamless and elevated experience from inquiry through execution
Build and maintain a robust local client database, cultivating long-term relationships and repeat business
Oversee all aspects of event planning including menu development, pricing, logistics, and production
Partner closely with culinary and beverage teams to design menus tailored to each event experience
Coordinate preparation, transportation, setup, service, and post-event breakdown for both on-site and off-site events
Manage event floorplans, timelines, and staffing to ensure flawless execution
Collaborate with vendors and external partners, negotiating contracts and maintaining strong working relationships
Develop and manage operating budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting for the events department
Monitor and control labor and food costs, ensuring profitability without compromising quality
Track revenue, manage receivables, and produce operational reports
Support strategic growth initiatives for Marcel’s expanding events program, including offsite opportunities
Hire, train, and develop team members and managers within the events function
Lead by example, fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability, and refined hospitality
Contribute to the development of service standards, event procedures, and presentation techniques
Inspire and guide teams to deliver consistent, high-level hospitality reflective of Marcel’s identity
Ensure all events adhere to health, safety, and sanitation standards, including HACCP compliance
Maintain consistency with Marcel’s luxury service standards and attention to detail across all touchpoints