Sr. Catering Sales Manager (Exhibits) | Full-Time | McCormick Place Convention Center

Oakview Group•Chicago, IL

55d•$72,000 - $78,000

About The Position

Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet. Position Summary Oak View Group located at McCormick Place Convention Center has an immediate opening for a Sr. Catering Sales Manager (Exhibits). This position is responsible for generating, planning, detailing, and coordinating private and corporate events at McCormick Place. Events include Corporate, Social and/or specific markets as assigned. This role pays an annual salary of $72,000-$78,000 Benefits for Full-Time roles: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching, and Paid Time Off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays) This position will remain open until December 31, 2025.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) preferred
4-6 years experience in catering sales
A general understanding of the hospitality and Food and Beverage industry
Excellent organizational, multi-tasking, and planning skills
Strong hospitality orientation
Maintains good hygiene and neat professional appearance
Knowledge of Spreadsheet and Word Processing software, and the ability to learn new programs as needed
Ability to work with limited supervision and will require the ability to interact with all levels of staff including management
Requires ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends and holidays, in addition to normal business hours
Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary to sell, plan, and negotiate
Needs to be an independent self-starter that thrives in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment
An interest in environmental causes and sustainability a plus

Responsibilities

Responsible for planning, coordinating, detailing and servicing special events (i.e. conventions, corporate functions, meetings and Gala's) at McCormick Place.
Generate revenue and provide excellent personal service to our internal and external guests mainly focusing on Show Management as clients.
Coordinates and leads sales and booking process to align with Show Management and exhibitor schedule
Seeks opportunities for additional sales and events based on show schedule and traffic flow not exclusive of catered events
Ability to customize creative menu and event solutions
Solid understanding of financials when creating and customizing menus and meeting packages
Aids in expanding the web of influence with the client organization and Show Management team
Develop and maintain communication line with OVG Hospitality operations. Keeps all event details current and staff informed
Give site inspections as needed
Assist OVG sales team with booking new and repeat business by doing outside sales visits, networking events, attending trade shows and travel.
Ability to develop and enhance existing programs with new and innovative culinary ideas for clients at McCormick Place
Ability to negotiate, influence and sell to all clients
Create requests for cash concession outlets when needed
Generate catering contracts and establish payment arrangements in compliance with accounting department guidelines
Provide detailed event analysis to support, maintain and/or improve company goals and guest satisfaction
Continuously interact with clients through duration of shows
Ensure a successful client event by partnering with OVG Hospitality operations team to meet food standards, room set up and on-time service with the result of client satisfaction.
Resolve any client concerns quickly and professionally
Update and maintain file information for repeat events with total Food & Beverage revenues and client relations
Update all details of the events to operations staff
Practice continuous efforts toward menu upgrades and increased services
Other projects as assigned by Director of Catering Sales