What are the responsibilities and job description for the Private Dining Sales Manager position at Evanston Corner Bistro?
Private Dining Sales Manager
The Lighthouse Room and Evanston Corner Bistro | Evanston, IL Part-Time | In-Office
About LM Restaurant Group
Founded in 2009 by Nicole and Stephan Outrequin Quaisser, LM Restaurant Group began as a single concept named after their two children, Luc and Mary. Today, LM remains a family-owned hospitality company dedicated to creating local gathering places that offer exceptional food and down-to-the-last-detail service.
Why Work for LM Restaurant Group?
LM Restaurant Group offers a unique opportunity for career growth within a dynamic and expanding hospitality organization. Whether you're in operations, sales, culinary, or management, we provide professional development and a clear path to advancement. Our team members have access to mentorship, leadership opportunities, and the chance to be part of innovative new projects and openings. At LM, we don't just give you a job, we help you grow a career.
About The Lighthouse Room & Evanston Corner Bistro
The Lighthouse Room is Evanston's premier private dining and event venue, housed within a landmark building that is also home to the beloved Evanston Corner Bistro and 17 Planet Based. While the three are distinct operations, together they create a dynamic hospitality destination in the heart of Evanston. The Lighthouse Room is a dedicated event venue, ideal for private celebrations, corporate gatherings, rehearsal dinners and more. Offering an elegant, versatile space with exceptional culinary and service offerings. We are proud to be a cornerstone of the Evanston community and are growing our team to bring The Lighthouse Room and our Private Dining Rooms at Evanston Corner Bistro experience to even more guests.
The Opportunity
We are looking for a motivated, connected, and personable Private Dining Sales Manager to drive bookings for The Lighthouse Room. This is a part-time, flexible role ideal for someone who thrives on building relationships, knows the Evanston and North Shore community, and has a passion for food, hospitality, and creating memorable events. Needs to be available to work weekends and evenings.
You'll be the first point of contact for prospective clients, from corporate luncheons and rehearsal dinners to birthday celebrations and nonprofit galas, guiding them through the booking process and ensuring every event starts with a great experience.
Responsibilities
- Actively prospect and generate new business for private dining and event bookings
- Respond promptly to incoming inquiries via phone, email, and online channels
- Conduct venue tours and consultations with prospective clients
- Prepare and present event proposals, menus, and contracts
- Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, event planners, hotels, concierges, and community organizations
- Develop and execute outreach strategies to target corporate clients, nonprofits, social groups, and individuals
- Collaborate with the culinary and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless event execution
- Reports directly to the Director of Sales & Marketing
- Represent The Lighthouse Room and Evanston Corner Bistro at local networking events and community functions
- Meet or exceed monthly and quarterly booking goals
Qualifications
- 2 years of sales experience in a restaurant, hotel, catering, or hospitality setting
- Previous event management experience
- Established knowledge of Evanston and the surrounding North Shore community
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills — you love talking to people
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage your own schedule
- Proficiency with email, basic office tools, and comfort learning reservation/CRM software
- Genuine passion for hospitality, food, and creating exceptional guest experiences
- Existing relationships with local businesses, event planners, or community organizations a strong plus
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive pay commensurate with experience
- Commission on confirmed bookings
- Part-time schedule — could turn into full time
- In-office presence at our Evanston location
- Opportunity to grow with an exciting, community-rooted hospitality brand
The Lighthouse Room and Evanston Corner Bistro are equal opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.
Pay: From $45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $45,000