Event Assistant Jobs in Winsted, CT (NOW HIRING)

JOB SUMMARY 

The Bear’s Smokehouse Events Department manages public and private events, including pickups, deliveries, in-house events, off-site catering, food trucks, and partnerships with off-site venues. The Event Coordinator is responsible for providing office support, such as answering phones, assisting customers with catering needs, developing quotes, finalizing orders, responding to inquiries, and performing clerical tasks like data entry and word processing. In addition, Event Coordinators are required to make deliveries and work events as needed.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative 

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of all administrative systems (Restaurant365, Connecteam, Toast, Caterzen) and their functions, including inventory management, vendor ordering, and invoice processing.

• Answer phones, take messages, and provide information on Bear’s Smokehouse catering and event services. Respond to catering inquiries, create menus, and provide quotes tailored to customer needs. Maintain a log of all inquiries.

• Manage and update tracking sheets, records, and documents related to the events department.

• Demonstrate in-depth menu knowledge to suggest items, upsell options, and offer customized menu solutions when needed.

• Prepare quotes and serve as the primary point of contact for customers from initial inquiry to event execution.

• Process payments and track deposits made by check or credit card.

• Assist Bear’s locations in scheduling in-house events, wedding tastings, and other staff or company events.

• Support the organization and preparation of Bear’s Holiday Catering orders.

• Ensure clear and consistent communication with store locations 

• Review orders with stores in advance for peak days to ensure accuracy.

• Follow up with customers for feedback and provide exceptional service.

• Provide support for full-service events or deliveries as needed.

• Accurately input orders into POS, handle payments, and process credit card transactions as needed.

• Engage with guests in a friendly, professional manner, ensuring a positive experience, even in busy or crowded situations.

• Collaborate with team members to ensure order accuracy and customer satisfaction.

• Attend  team meetings and training sessions.

• Communicate effectively with department leadership in a timely manner.

• Run routine errands for the department, such as delivering supplies to Bear’s locations.

• Perform additional duties as required by the department.

• Act as the on-site lead for VIP and large-scale events, ensuring smooth operations and client satisfaction.

• Monitor staff performance during events, addressing any issues and ensuring adherence to company standards.

• Support events as needed, including setup, service, and breakdown.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Adhere to and continuously update the event department’s operational calendar to ensure completion of all required tasks in accordance with company deadlines.  

• Follow all documented workflows, processes, and procedures related to the position and/or department, ensuring they are maintained in the company's operations manual, and continuously update them as changes occur.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

WORK SCHEDULE

This role typically follows standard office hours, requiring up to 40 hours per week, depending on workload.  Weekends are required. Flexibility is essential, as the position is determined by the needs of the business and is adjusted weekly to accommodate upcoming events requiring the position’s presence, including evenings and holidays.  Additionally, the role requires participation in large company events outside regular office hours, contributing to "all hands on deck" efforts to ensure successful execution. This position requires full-time onsite presence at the office. Remote work options are not available for this role.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

SKILLS REQUIRED

Administrative

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Catering and/or food handling experience in a restaurant environment preferred.

• Proven ability to engage with clients professionally and provide outstanding service.

• Highly detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and precision in all tasks.

• Ability to follow specific instructions and established procedures with a high level of understanding.

• Skilled in operating standard office equipment, including phones, copiers, and fax machines.

• Experienced in managing front-desk duties, including answering calls, greeting clients, and providing support.

• In-depth understanding of catering and event operations, with a focus on delivering exceptional client experiences.

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, Google Docs, and capable of quickly learning new software and systems.

• Strong understanding of business