Catering Sales & Marketing Coordinator

WHO WE ARE

Are you ready to elevate your career in the restaurant industry? Thunderdome Restaurant Group currently has nine growing concepts: Bakersfield, The Eagle, Krueger’s Tavern, SoHi, Maplewood, Pepp & Dolores, The Davidson, City Bird and Currito. We're looking for individuals who are passionate about excellence and driven by continuous learning. We value loyalty, curiosity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. All decisions are made based on the CORE VALUES of the company’s mission within their environments:

• Make a Memory
• Add Value
• Be Transparent
• Persevere
• Throw the Party

As the Catering & Sales Coordinator, you will be the face of our catering programs for both The Eagle and Bakersfield in the local market. This is a hands-on role where you will actively hunt for new business, build lasting relationships within the community, and execute many of the events and orders you book. You will be responsible for driving off-site and on-site event sales through Local Store Marketing (LSM) efforts, targeting area businesses, hotels, event venues, and athletic teams.

This is an individual contributor role (no supervisory duties) perfect for a self-starter who thrives in a commission-driven environment. You will see your sales through from the first handshake to the final delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Local Store Marketing (LSM)

• Proactively network and build long-term relationships with local businesses, hotel concierges, event space coordinators, athletic teams, and community organizations.
• Act as a brand ambassador for both The Eagle and Bakersfield, pitching the unique and cross branded offerings of each concept to potential clients.
• Manage incoming catering requests promptly, delivering precise quotes and turning prospects into confirmed bookings.
• Develop and maintain a pipeline of recurring catering clients and seasonal event bookings.
• Seek out and attend local networking events and community events to generate brand awareness and new leads.
• Hosting marketing happy hours and dine to donate fundraise events.
• Develop and maintain a market-specific event calendar. Use this calendar to drive sales outreach, plan promotional activities, and coordinate effectively with the operations team.
• Utilize the PeopleLinx program to engage and generate sales opportunities.
• Identify and secure strategic partnerships with local event venues to establish preferred vendor status for catering services.

Event Execution & Delivery

• Oversee and execute the logistics of all catering and events, ensuring a flawless guest experience. 
• Coordinate with the kitchen and restaurant management teams to ensure timely and accurate preparation of catering orders.
• Load catering orders, hot boxes, and supplies into your personal vehicle safely and efficiently.
• Deliver, unpack, and set up food at off-site locations, ensuring brand standards for presentation are met.
• Serve as the point of contact for clients during on-site restaurant events and large off-site drop-offs.
• Responsible for post event feedback 100% of the time.
• Provide support for on-site restaurant service as needed on an occasional basis.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 1–3 years of experience in sales, hospitality, catering, or local marketing preferred.
• Transportation: Must possess a reliable personal and well kept vehicle, a valid driver's license, and proof of active auto insurance. You will be using your car daily to transport food and equipment. Candidates must complete application for the Approved Driver Program, motor vehicle history subject to review and approval.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift, carry, and load heavy items (up to 50 lbs), including hot boxes, catering trays, and beverages.
• Skills: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple event details simultaneously. 
• Drive: A self-motivated "hunter" mentality with a passion for networking and closing sales. “Get to yes” attitude.
• Schedule: Weekly work hours are subject to change depending on event volume and catering bookings. It is expected that the coordinator will be present for the bulk of scheduled orders and functions. All schedules require management authorization.  Must be available nights and weekends.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay Structure: Base hourly wage plus a competitive commission structure. Your earning potential is directly tied to your hustle—you earn a percentage of the sales for every event you book and execute.