What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Catering Sales position at CULINAIRE?
Company Description CULINAIRE is a hospitality company that operates full-service restaurants and provides upscale catering services across hotels, art museums, cultural landmarks, performing arts theaters, restaurants, and wedding venues. The company customizes its services to meet each facility’s specific needs and is known for high-quality cuisine and attentive service. CULINAIRE emphasizes a people-centered culture where associates are recognized for serving, smiling, and caring. The organization offers entrepreneurial career paths for individuals at all levels, from entry-level restaurant and banquet roles to experienced chefs, managers, and catering sales professionals. Team members benefit from a comprehensive package that includes company-sponsored medical insurance, dental, disability, legal, life, pet, theft, vision coverage, a 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.
Role Description The Director of Catering Sales is a full-time, on-site role based in Milwaukee, WI, responsible for leading and growing catering sales for the property. This position oversees the entire catering sales process, including prospecting, managing inquiries, conducting site visits, preparing proposals and contracts, and closing business to achieve revenue targets. The Director collaborates closely with culinary, operations, and event teams to ensure seamless event execution that meets client expectations and supports high customer satisfaction. Daily tasks include building and maintaining client relationships, developing sales strategies, forecasting and reporting, and optimizing menus and packages with management to increase profitability. The role also involves mentoring and guiding catering sales staff, upholding CULINAIRE’s standards of service, and representing the brand at community and industry events.
Qualifications
Role Description The Director of Catering Sales is a full-time, on-site role based in Milwaukee, WI, responsible for leading and growing catering sales for the property. This position oversees the entire catering sales process, including prospecting, managing inquiries, conducting site visits, preparing proposals and contracts, and closing business to achieve revenue targets. The Director collaborates closely with culinary, operations, and event teams to ensure seamless event execution that meets client expectations and supports high customer satisfaction. Daily tasks include building and maintaining client relationships, developing sales strategies, forecasting and reporting, and optimizing menus and packages with management to increase profitability. The role also involves mentoring and guiding catering sales staff, upholding CULINAIRE’s standards of service, and representing the brand at community and industry events.
Qualifications
- Strong Catering Sales and Sales skills, with experience generating and closing profitable catering business.
- Commitment to Customer Satisfaction and Customer Service, ensuring a positive client experience from initial inquiry through event completion.
- Proficiency in Event Management, including planning, coordination, and execution in partnership with culinary and operations teams.
- Demonstrated leadership and team management abilities, with skill in coaching and developing sales staff.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills with corporate, social, and wedding clientele.
- Ability to analyze sales reports, forecast revenue, and develop strategic sales plans for catering operations.
- Experience with catering or hospitality sales systems and basic proficiency in standard office software.
- Previous leadership experience in catering, hospitality, or food and beverage; a degree in hospitality, business, or a related field is preferred.