Event and Catering Sales Representative - Outside Sales

JOB SUMMARY: The Event and Catering Sales Representative is responsible for generating revenue by going out in the field to actively solicit and secure catering contracts for events, meetings, and parties. They will develop and execute strategies to meet and exceed the company's sales and marketing objectives. They are responsible for understanding Seasons Catering's products and services, sales methodology, prospecting techniques, and customer base in order to prepare and present customized solutions for catering needs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement sales strategies to attract new clients and retain existing ones.
• Identify and pursue leads for all types of new catering business from North Los Angeles County to Goleta.
• Organize different target groups and provide strategic plans for reaching these groups through quarterly reports of past, current, and future sales goals/targets. This includes but is not limited to corporate, non-profit, vendor/coordinators, wedding, venue, and DMC accounts.
• Network through industry group meetings such as ILEA/NACE with the intent to foster and maintain relationships, identify key leads, and generate interest in the company's products and services.
• Coordinate special events and assist in creating plans for industry events (ILEA, NACE, pop-ups, marketing events, etc).
• Coordinate and execute off-site sales meetings and presentations.
• Coordinate marketing collateral.
• Oversee, manage, and direct the work of the Sales Coordinator.
• On a daily basis, review inquiry details input into Total Party Planner (TPP) by the Sales Coordinator for all in-house calls and website inquiries.
• Input all inquiry details into TPP for any off-site or direct inquiries.
• Work collaboratively with the Sales Coordinator to review TPP notes and communicate with clients to understand their catering needs and provide customized solutions.
• Prepare and present proposals, contracts, and pricing to clients along with the Sales Coordinator.
• Work collaboratively with the Sales Coordinator to maintain communication with clients who have outstanding proposals in order to secure the sale.
• Secure signed contracts and retainer payments along with the Sales Coordinator in order to flip inquiry to booked.
• Book and host Chef's Table tastings for booked and prospective clients and other guests.
• After the event is booked, coordinate with the catering team to ensure the successful execution of booked events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, event planners, and colleagues.
• Stay updated on industry trends and competitor activities.
• Work with the Operations Manager and Owner to create quarterly and annual financial sales goals based on projections and past years' numbers.
• Provide sales reports for tracking sales, potentials (OTS) as outlined by Seasons Catering.
• Manage charitable donations and maintain a ledger.
• Interact directly with clients on grievances and complaints, mitigating situations, and
• problem-solving for a resolution.
• Maintain BOOKED/NOT BOOKED files on TPP and Google Docs.
• Attend weekly staff meetings.

PAY RANGE:

Base pay between $75,000 - $85,000 per year, plus commission

BENEFITS:

Paid vacation

After a 60-day waiting period: Health Insurance Benefits: 100% dental and vision plan elections, plus 75% of the lowest cost employee rate for HMO/EPO towards your employee plan medical premium. (Employees are responsible for covering the cost of 100% of their dependents.)

The position is contingent upon the following:

• Submission of satisfactory proof of your identity and legal authorization to work in the United States. If you fail to submit this proof, federal law prohibits us from hiring you.
• Clearance from our insurance provider for you to drive a company vehicle

Seasons Catering is an equal employment opportunity employer that selects the individual who is the best match for a position based on job-related qualifications, without regard to race, color, creed, sex, national origin, religion, sexual preference, age, disability, genetic information, or another protected group status.

Seasons Catering is an at-will employer, which means that the company or you may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice, and in accordance with applicable law.

• A minimum of 3 years experience in catering sales or a related field.
• Proficiency in using computer software for sales tracking, customer relationship management (CRM), and event planning.
• At least 51% of your time must be spent in the field, capturing sales and meeting with prospective clients.
• Strong sales and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to multitask and work well under pressure.
• Knowledge of food and beverage trends and industry regulations.
• A genuine passion for hospitality and creating memorable experiences for clients and their guests.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in hospitality management or a related field.
• Familiarity with Total Party Planner.

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