Event Sales Manager

9e321f43-e97c-4f44-8aa5-ffef2fa171cf•Evanston, IL

5d•$55,000 - $58,000

About The Position

Horizon Realty Group is seeking an Event Sales Manager for The Crystal Ballroom and Lounge, a wedding and event venue in the Chicagoland area. The Event Sales Manager manages the full event lifecycle, from the initial inquiry and booking through planning, preparation, and final execution. This person serves as the primary client contact and central coordinator for assigned events, overseeing contracts, communications, event details, vendors, staff coordination, and on-site execution. The position requires strong sales, organizational, communication, problem-solving, and event management skills, with ownership of the client experience from beginning to end. This is a full-time salaried position with a base salary and earnable commissions.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Three years of sales experience in the hospitality or event sales industry.
Desire to satisfy the needs of others in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in general computer knowledge and CRM systems.
Strong attention to detail, organization, and teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Some college preferred.
Event Pro experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage the full event sales process, including responding to inquiries and leads, following up, preparing proposals, and converting leads into bookings.
Conduct venue tours, client meetings, tastings, and consultations; build client relationships and serve as the primary contact throughout planning.
Manage contract negotiations, payments, deposits, invoices, and client accounts, keeping financial and contract details accurate and current.
Plan and coordinate event details, including floor plans, room layouts, timelines, BEOs, setup requirements, special requests, and supporting documentation.
Coordinate with internal departments and staff on event details, client expectations, timelines, menus, setup requirements, and responsibilities.
Coordinate outside vendors on arrival times, setup requirements, access, venue policies, and other logistics.
Maintain the venue’s online profiles and event information across online platforms.
Represent the Crystal Ballroom at bridal shows, community events, networking events, and other marketing or lead-generation opportunities.
Serve as the on-site lead for assigned events, remaining on-site from pre-event setup through the event’s conclusion.
Oversee and participate in event setup, including table placement, linens, and room layouts.
Create and lead pre-event staff meetings and timelines so staff and departments understand schedules, client expectations, responsibilities, and special requirements.
Oversee event execution from beginning to end, ensuring contracted services, event details, and client expectations are fulfilled and communicating directly with the client during the event.
Take ownership of issues before or during events and coordinate with staff, vendors, and department heads to resolve them.
Maintain accurate client and event records in Event Pro and other applicable systems, including leads, contracts, payments, event details, and follow-up; manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously.