Maple & Ash Chicago - Event Sales Manager

This role is an Event Sales Manager position at Maple & Ash Chicago, part of Maple Hospitality Group. The manager will be responsible for generating new leads for corporate and social private events, overseeing day-to-day event operations, and collaborating with front- and back-of-house teams to execute events. They will also manage client communications, coordinate with vendors, and ensure guest satisfaction. The role reports to the General Manager, Executive Chef, and Owners.

Responsibilities

• Accomplish company goals by owning assigned tasks and exploring opportunities to add value to the position
• Strictly adhere to all restaurants financial plans and budgets
• Review private event sales trends, profit goals and spending with financial team – and create solutions for increased revenue and reduced spending
• Be responsible for all day to day events operations within the restaurants
• Generate new leads for corporate and social private events
• Oversee the execution of events, collaborating with both front- and back-of-house leaders
• Continue to develop and maintain all events systems, focusing on finding efficiencies
• Provide leadership in guest engagement, satisfaction and retention
• Oversee purchasing, inventory, supplies and beverage cost of goods management for events
• Communicate with clients in regards to all proposals, bids, marketing collateral and contracts
• Provide walk-throughs and on-site inspections with clients
• Ensure guest concerns are handled pre and post event
• Coordinate directly with outside vendors (rentals, linens, AV, floral, etc.)
• Comply with corporate and restaurant-specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) – and ensure that the event team is following these guidelines
• Build and develop strong event teams, prior to opening and while operating
• Lead and actively participate in weekly BEO meetings
• Work with the Executive Chef and chef team to guarantee food quality and 100% customer satisfaction for private events
• Maintain a friendly, caring and professional demeanor at all times in a fast-paced environment
• Respond quickly to guest requests in a friendly and professional manner. Consistently following up to ensure guest satisfaction that meets and exceeds our hospitality standards
• Responsible for adjusting the environment, music, lighting, and temperature in the private event spaces as needed to maintain the appropriate atmosphere
• Keep up to date on the industry competition and grow industry knowledge by tracking emerging trends in the restaurant industry, establishing personal networks, and being updated on press publications and articles
• Cultivate relationships with local businesses, key community members, local governing bodies and other target constituencies to establish the restaurant in the market
• Report to the General Manager, Executive Chef and Owners on operational wins, losses and areas in need of improvement
• Focus on hospitality goals and continue to drive generosity within the operation

Requirements

• 2+ years of sales management experience in restaurant/hospitality industry
• High end level restaurant experience is highly preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong passion and dedication to food, beverage, and hospitality
• Polished, professional, and energetic approach management
• Ability to work well in a systems-driven environment
• Ability to be adaptable and abide by the policies and values of the company
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality

Benefits

• Pay: $60k + commission, total potential earnings $100k+