About the position
Join the team at Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park as an Event Sales Manager and take your career to new heights! In this role, you’ll develop market segments, build and maintain relationships with both corporate and social clients, and drive revenue by negotiating services and prices. You'll focus on private events at Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval, along with our stunning hotel event spaces and suites, handling everything from sales to event service. This is your chance to work in a dynamic, high-energy environment at one of Chicago’s most iconic venues, contributing to the success of the hotel, while creating unforgettable experiences for clients and making special happen!
Responsibilities
- Responsible for creating proposals and sales presentations to secure local catering business.
- Conduct property tours, and attend events to promote services and close deals.
- Respond to leads and inquiries via platforms like Opera, Cvent, Wedding Pro, and PartySlate.
- Manage customer relationships, draft proposals and contracts, and coordinate all event arrangements for social and corporate events.
- Engage in proactive sales activities such as networking and sales blitzes to target the local community.
- Design creative menus and events to optimize revenue and enhance guest experience.
- Perform day-to-day administrative tasks as needed.
- Prepare and present catering forecasts and reports for the Director of Event Sales.
- Coordinate and execute significant events, preparing documents such as Group Resumes and BEOs.
- Attend meetings to communicate event details and requirements.
- Demonstrate expertise in banquet and event etiquette, guest relations, and service standards.
- Work independently with excellent time management, self-motivation, and the ability to handle multiple tasks under pressure.
- Manage and direct staff, ensuring professionalism and meeting deadlines.
- Perform other duties as required.
- Possess knowledge of hotel operations, safety protocols, policies, and industry standards.
Requirements
- Four-year degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
- Three years’ prior qualified work experience.
- Hospitality experience required.
- Strong technical literacy including Microsoft Office Suite, Banquet Event Order software, and knowledge of Opera and Catering software.
- Strong communication skills in English, both verbal and written, to interact with guests and employees.
- Ability to demonstrate patience, tact, and diplomacy when addressing difficult situations or defusing anger.
- Capable of gathering accurate information and resolving problems effectively.
- Knowledge of additional languages is encouraged but not required.
- Basic knowledge of audio-visual equipment, internet, telecommunication technology – helpful.
- Strong organizational, leadership and project management skills are required.
Benefits
- Salary range $70,000 - $85,000.
- Diversity & Inclusion commitment.
