Event Sales Manager

SSA Group, LLC•Louisville, KY

8d•$60,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Event Sales Manager drives sales and revenue growth by promoting and selling the venue, catering services, and add-on experiences. The role uses sales strategies and client relationship skills to secure business and ensure successful event execution, while delivering exceptional client experiences. The position is based onsite at the Louisville Zoo and has revenue responsibility of $200,000+. The manager develops new business, guides clients through sales and planning, coordinates event details with venue teams and vendors, and supports smooth event execution. Responsibilities also include managing contracts and payments, meeting sales budgets, analyzing performance, and contributing to sustainability and community efforts. Team management duties apply where applicable.

Requirements

At least 4 years of experience in catering and/or event sales, operations, or event planning management is required.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.
Advanced leadership skills, including understanding team building and development and fostering partnerships.
Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills and the ability to stay organized.
Financial management, analytical, and planning skills.
Flexibility in a fast-paced environment.
Computer skills for basic office functions.
Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift, move, and handle boxes weighing up to 35 pounds as needed.
Ability to work varied hours and days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
Must be at least 18 years old.

Nice To Haves

Six or more years of experience will receive stronger consideration.
Experience in off-site catering, hotel, or cultural attraction catering venues is preferred.
Working knowledge of Tripleseat.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement strategies to sell venue and catering services to new and returning clients.
Analyze the market to identify new and untapped revenue opportunities.
Prospect and secure new business through cold calling, networking, and client outreach.
Conduct site tours and menu tastings.
Solicit, negotiate, and secure signed event agreements.
Plan and upsell functions, including space, timing, equipment, menus, themes, and decorations.
Respond promptly to client requests and ensure client satisfaction.
Serve as the primary client contact throughout sales and planning, communicating proactively and transparently.
Prepare and manage contracts, Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), diagrams, and other event documents.
Build relationships with venue departments and understand their policies and procedures.
Maintain positive client relationships, conduct post-event follow-ups, and provide tailored solutions.
Communicate with vendors, maintain pricing knowledge, negotiate, and ensure vendors follow venue guidelines and event requirements.
Maintain a list of vendor and other resources for client and operational use.
Develop detailed event plans, timelines, and floorplans; inspect event spaces before events and address issues.
Manage last-minute changes and collaborate with Catering Operations, Culinary, and other departments to execute events and develop strategies and procedures.
Ensure accurate documentation, legal compliance, a clean and safe work environment, accurate records, and adherence to company policies and procedures.
Attend event starts to support execution of the client's vision and transfer authority to operations when appropriate.
Collect and process payments and deposits according to company policies and payment schedules.
Develop, meet, and exceed monthly and annual sales budgets and plans; analyze sales and inventory to maximize opportunities.
Review invoices, bills, and accounting documents for accuracy and communicate necessary changes to Accounts Receivable.
Understand menu and event cost structures to meet profitability guidelines.
Report weekly and monthly sales through Tripleseat, analyze sales trends and client feedback, and adjust strategies to improve conversion.
Promote inclusion and support, model sustainability and conservation efforts, and engage in community and giving-back activities.
Where applicable, recruit, hire, integrate, supervise, evaluate, coach, and develop team members; create training programs, remove barriers to growth, hold team meetings, set sales targets, track progress, and ensure policy compliance.
In locations with one seller, receive bonuses based on unit sales; in locations with multiple sellers, bonuses are based on unit sales and a predetermined individual sales goal, and the role may include player-coach duties.
Perform other tasks as necessary.

Benefits

$75 monthly cell phone stipend.
Bonus eligibility based on company guidelines.
Flex Time Off with no accruals; employees are encouraged to schedule time off as needed within business scope.
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and other voluntary benefits for employees and their families; employee premiums apply.
401(k) program with a 15% company match, subject to eligibility requirements.
Employer-sponsored short-term and long-term disability benefits.
Paid parental leave for birthing parents, up to 6–8 weeks based on the birthing event.
Up to 120 hours of SSA Paid Benefit Leave for qualifying reasons, including parental bonding and a family's serious medical conditions.
Up to 5 days of paid bereavement leave.
On-demand pay program providing access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
Meal plan and employee discounts where applicable.
Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local laws.