Event Sales Manager - TAO Restaurant Chicago

Tao Group Hospitality offers competitive benefits for all full-time team members such as:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• 401(k) Retirement Program with Employer Match
• Life and Disability Insurance Plans
• Ancillary Insurance Plans
• Mental Health Support and Services
• Fertility & Family Forming Support and Resources
• Pet Insurance
• Employee Discounts
• TAO Savings Marketplace
• Time off and much more!

The position of Event Sales Manager is responsible for maximizing the restaurant and nightlife/ lounge space to meet/exceed sales goals in Chicago, Illinois. The position will solicit, negotiate, and book new and repeat business by doing outside sales calls, mailings, networking, etc. providing sales and service of clients from the time of booking to the actual events. Responsible for ensuring all events, conform to the client’s desired specifications by planning and coordinating all the event’s activities. Supports the operational aspects of business booked and exhibits exemplary guest service.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Targets small groups, social, and corporate, for Restaurant and Nightlife portfolio in Chicago
•  Respond to incoming leads with heavy emphasis on proactive solicitations and account saturation 
•  Consult with clients to determine the objectives and requirements for events; plans and assist with executing all events, including coordinating services, such as catering, signage, displays, special needs requirements, facilities, and event security 
• Handle all group details once made definite by client and branded location management including the food and beverage program, menu selections, estimated and actual food and beverage revenue and set up requirements for food and beverage functions through group departure 
• Proactively identifies, qualifies and solicits new business to achieve personal and company goals 
• Prepare and send out formal written proposals based on client’s specifications that will yield the highest rate of return on investment. Effectively handles objections and closes business 
• Assign group function space effectively to maximize revenue opportunities 
• Meet & greet clients, conduct site inspections, promote facilities and services 
• Ensure that all pertinent aspects of solicitation and closing are complete and documented 
• Maintain established customer relations and generate new relationships during event 
• Develop efficient event systems for events on-site or off-site, including site visits 
• Ensure the following items are properly maintained: TripleSeat, menus, information packets, tasting sessions, standard guest emails, terms and conditions, manager/chef briefs, costing/proposal documents, REOs, briefing sheets, function forecasting, filing, and follow-up systems. Confers with event/banquet staff to coordinate event details 
• Ensure all events are accurately costed and deliver profit at company-agreed margins 
• Service the event to ensure client satisfaction and resolution of any problems that arise 
• Manage the billing process for events by reviewing invoices/contracts for accuracy and approving payment; prepares department and vendor invoices and contracts 
• Participate in departmental meetings, Special Event Order readings, and other meetings as assigned 
• Assist and/ or complete additional tasks as assigned

EDUCATION/WORKING KNOWLEDGE:

• High School Diploma Required or equivalent/College Degree with an emphasis in hospitality and/or equivalent combination of education and experience in a related field
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in catering sales/banquet management in restaurant, nightclub, hotel, and/or special event sales
• Strong knowledgeable of the practices and procedures of the food and beverage, hospitality, and catering businesses 
• Working knowledge of sanitation standards, health department regulations, and liquor laws 
• Knowledge of wine trends and characteristics 
• Preferred knowledge of Tripleseat, OpenTable, and other relevant software 
• Proficient in Windows Microsoft Office, POS systems, and Oracle knowledge preferred
• 21+ years of age

 

SKILLS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT / SCHEDULE 

The work environment characteristics and/or physical demands described here are representative of those a Team Member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to