Overview

The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for the sales and service of events for groups up to approximately 50 people, along with all wedding events. The position will also assist in the overall execution of the Grand River Center’s sales initiatives. The Catering Sales Manager will work with clients to advise about rates, catering, and services; preparation and execution of event contracts, planning, coordination, and execution of events in assigned market segment. Strong verbal and written communications skills, the ability to manage several tasks simultaneously, be self-governed and self-motivated, possess a basic understanding of banquet and catering sales, public relations, advertising and special event planning and execution are essential.

The Catering Sales Manager is an intricate part of the event team and is expected to recognize the value and benefits of teamwork. Open lines of communication within the team are vital to its success and that of the company.

This role pays an annual salary of $45,000-$50,000

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 April 10, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Performs related work as assigned by Director of Sales & Marketing and Director of Events & Catering. 
• Meets specified goals and objectives for venue usage by promoting the convention center to all potential clients; conducts venue tours; answers questions and provides information regarding venue services, policies and procedures; and assists clients in finalizing booking arrangements.
• Design floor layouts on venue software.
• Manage weddings from sales portion through end of event. 
• Create and distribute accurate Banquet Event Orders (BEO)
• Advance, plan, service, and supervise all weddings. 
• Primary sales contact for all groups expecting approximately 50 or fewer attendees.
• Set appointments and make outside calls to potential clients.
• Make solicitation calls, assist with promotions and direct mail activities.
• Researches, identifies and establishes the appropriateness of groups for the venue.
• Attend industry events and tradeshows as may be required.
• Prepare event contracts, sales folders, sales kits and correspondence to clients.
• Enter and maintain complete and accurate information into booking system.
• Works with clients and facility staff to determine event needs and opportunities for upselling food and beverages, and other services offered by the facility.
• Work a flexible schedule, including long nights, early mornings, weekends & holidays as needed.
• Complete all duties with a customer service focus through teamwork & dedication to OVG’s principles.
• Assist in the preparation of building to meet the requirements of upcoming events/shows.
• Participates in the development of newsletters and other marketing materials.
• Prepare reports, correspondence, memoranda, agreements and forecast projections.
• Provide assistance and staff support to the Director of Sales & Marketing.
• Prepare and deliver verbal presentations to groups of various sizes.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Working as a Manager on Duty (MOD) as required.
• Analyzing competitors and target markets.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in sales, marketing or other related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years of increasingly responsible experience in business to business sales required, preferentially with a wedding venue, sports facility, convention center, performing arts facility, or other multi-purpose public assembly facility.
• Prefer experience in weddings, conventions, banquets, entertainment, tradeshow/meetings with responsibility for scheduling, arranging, promoting meetings, lectures, exhibits, conventions, concerts or other related events.
• High school diploma or equivalent GED required.
• Strong computer skills in Windows environment and MS Office applications. Training on industry software will be provided.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and select holidays as required, in addition to normal business hours if needed.