Event Sales Manager – Lockport Tap Room

Big Ditch Brewing Company is a fast-growing craft brewery known for its high-quality, delicious beers and unique taproom experiences. Our Lockport Tap Room, located at 1 East Avenue in the Historic Post Office, offers three distinct event spaces for private events, corporate functions, and special occasions. We pride ourselves on creating memorable events for our guests.

Job summary
The Event Sales Manager is responsible for generating and managing private event sales for the Lockport Tap Room.

This individual will be the primary point of contact for clients, from initial inquiry through event execution, and will be instrumental in growing the private events business for our Lockport Tap Room. The ideal candidate has a passion for exceptional customer service and is a proactive, organized, and sales-driven professional.

The spaces you'll be selling:

• Five Locks Lounge - Accommodates 54 seated guests or 80 cocktail-style. Features a private bar and televisions for presentations. Perfect for corporate meetings and intimate gatherings.
• Hayburner Hall - A semi-private space accommodating up to 75 seated or 125 cocktail-style. This area is equipped with dining tables, cocktail tables, and TVs for a versatile, casual setting.
• Full Tap Room Buyout - Sells the use of the entire Lockport Tap Room for large-scale events, including weddings and fundraisers, with a capacity of up to 500 guests.

Duties:

• Generate sales leads: Actively prospect new business through targeted outreach, networking, and engaging with the local Lockport and Niagara County Communities.
• Sales planning: Develop and implement a focused prospecting plan to identify and engage high-potential accounts that fit our event profile and service standards.
• Relationship building: Maintain and grow relationships with repeat and referral clients while seeking new opportunities aligned with the Big Ditch brand.
• Manage inquiries and bookings: Respond to incoming inquiries for private events in a timely and professional manner. Conduct site tours of the event spaces and detail customized event packages.
• Manage client relationships: Work with clients to plan and execute a variety of events, including rehearsal dinners, corporate events, reunions, birthday parties, celebrations of life, and fundraisers.
• Execute event contracts: Draft and negotiate contracts, ensuring all event details, including food and beverage minimums, are clearly outlined.
• Coordinate event details: Work closely with the events team, Tap Room management, and the culinary staff to ensure a seamless and successful event. Maintain clear and consistent communication with clients throughout the planning process.
• Menu and package development: Collaborate with management to develop custom food and beverage packages as necessary that meet client needs and showcase the Tap Room's offerings.
• Maintain sales records: Track leads, proposals, and bookings in a detailed and organized manner.
• Represent the brand: Act as an ambassador for Big Ditch Brewing, ensuring a quality, unique, and memorable experience for all guests.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in catering sales, event sales, or hospitality sales with a proven track record of success in sales growth.
• Strong understanding of event planning and execution.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently to meet sales goals.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Previous experience / proficiency using event management software (Tripleseat or other)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, which may include evenings and weekends, to accommodate client needs and events.
• Familiarity with the Lockport and Western New York markets is a plus.

Pay range: $62,000 - $80,000

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $62,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $62,000 - $80,000