
Catering Sales Manager
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago · Chicago, IL
- On site
- Full-time
- $85,000 / year
- Chicago, IL
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Subject: Interested in the Catering Sales Manager role at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago
Hi Taylor — I came across the Catering Sales Manager opening and wanted to reach out directly. I've spent the last few years doing exactly this kind of work, and Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago stood out because…
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Job highlights
- Manage catering sales to achieve revenue goals.
- Prepare proposals and client contracts.
- Respond to RFPs and solicit new business.
- Build client relationships for repeat bookings.
- Collaborate with hotel departments effectively.
About the role
About the Role
Join Our Renowned Sales Team as Catering Sales Manager – Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago Downtown
Are you a seasoned sales hotelier with a passion for curating extraordinary experiences? The Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago Downtown is in search of an exceptional Catering Sales Manager to join the team at this iconic property. Nestled within the architectural masterpiece that is the Aqua Tower and situated in the heart of Chicago's vibrant downtown, our hotel represents the pinnacle of hospitality.
Key Areas of Responsibility Include
- Achieves market share and revenue goals by working with the Director of Sales (Marketing)/Director of Catering (Convention Services) on individual and team goals within assigned market segments.
- Prepares proposals and contracts that are geared to maximize profit while satisfying client needs.
- Responds to Request For Proposals (RFPs) as they relate to customer inquiries in alignment with brand standards.
- Communicates booked and assigned clients' requests to all departments in an effective and timely manner via group resume(s) and details Banquet Event Orders (BEOs).
- Solicits files on a timely basis to confirm business.
- Uses outside sales calls, prospecting, hotels tours and hosting of clients to solicit new business.
- Delivers and sells hotel’s features and benefits to meet clients' needs.
- Contacts in-house customers to retain and grow existing business, repeat bookings or referrals to other Radisson Hotels.
- Reviews individual goals on a weekly basis; recommends and takes appropriate actions to achieve objectives in key result areas.
- Ability to pivot in both markets and team role pending changing economic and team dynamics.
- Ensures maximum occupancy, daily, by performing follow-ups on progress of groups booked with events services team and meeting planners.
- Ensure all materials used are in accordance with brand standards.
- Potential travel to trade shows and customer events, representing RHGA and your hotel within company expectations.
- Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the hotel which are aligned with Radisson’s overall mission, vision values and strategies.
- Develops and implements strategies for achieving individual sales goals.
- Maintains proper flow of information to sales team, reviews sales work file of assigned accounts.
- Assists with the completion of monthly booking report(s).
- Prepares reports and forecasts as necessary to improve management decision making and critical evaluation of work activities.
- Creates 100% guest satisfaction by providing the Radisson experience through performance that demonstrates the standards of genuine hospitality and exceeding guest expectations.
Primary Responsibilities Breakdown
- Responsibility #1 (70%): Sales initiatives, managing RFPs, detailing BEOs, generating new leads, and providing clear, strong, and creative negotiation and accommodation for current and potential client catering services requests.
- Responsibility #2 (20%): Conduct market research and analysis to align with industry trends and opportunities for soliciting business and maintaining client loyalty for future bookings. Following up with new leads to achieve objectives.
- Responsibility #3 (10%): Attend networking events, participate in community involvement opportunities, and serve as a strong presence for hotel service and brand advocacy.
Requirements/Skills
- High school diploma required, associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.
- Minimum one - three years hotel catering or convention experience.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong negotiation skills.
- Strong mathematical skills.
- General knowledge of contract laws.
- Local market knowledge preferred.
- Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite®, Delphi and/or Opera.
- Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) desirable.
- Able to collaborate effectively with other hotel employees and managers to ensure teamwork.
Benefits
- Employee discounts on thousands of hotels.
- Full benefits package to our full-time employees, including health, dental, vision, short & long term disability, auto insurance, and more.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Employer paid Accident insurance and HSA contribution.
- 401(k) Retirement Plan.
Key skills/competency
- Catering Sales
- Sales Management
- Revenue Goals
- Proposal Generation
- RFP Response
- Client Relations
- Market Research
- Negotiation Skills
- Hotel Operations
- Sales Strategy
Skills & topics
- Catering Sales Manager
- Hotel Sales
- Convention Services
- BEO Detailing
- RFP Management
- Client Acquisition
- Hospitality Sales
- Event Sales
- Chicago Hotels
- Revenue Management
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your catering sales experience and achievements, quantifying results where possible.
- Craft a compelling cover letter: Express your passion for hospitality and the Radisson Blu brand, detailing your relevant skills.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your sales strategies, negotiation tactics, and how you create guest satisfaction.
- Showcase your market knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the Chicago downtown hospitality market and its trends.
- Network within the industry: Leverage connections to learn more about Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel and express your interest.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the typical career path for a Catering Sales Manager at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago?
- The typical career path for a Catering Sales Manager at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago often involves progression to Director of Sales or Director of Catering roles, potentially leading to larger market segments or multi-property management within the Radisson portfolio. Strong performance in achieving revenue goals and client satisfaction are key to advancement.
- What are the key performance indicators for a Catering Sales Manager at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago?
- Key performance indicators for a Catering Sales Manager at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago include achieving market share and revenue goals, successful RFP response rates, client retention and referral rates, and overall guest satisfaction scores related to catering events.
- Does Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago offer opportunities for professional development for its Catering Sales Managers?
- Yes, Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago offers opportunities for professional development, including participation in trade shows, access to training programs, and potential for advancement within the company. The role also offers exposure to industry trends and customer events.
- What specific software or systems will a Catering Sales Manager use at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago?
- A Catering Sales Manager at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago will likely use Microsoft Office Suite® and specialized hotel management systems such as Delphi and/or Opera for managing client information, proposals, contracts, and event details.
- How important is local market knowledge for the Catering Sales Manager role at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago?
- Local market knowledge is preferred for the Catering Sales Manager role at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago. Understanding the Chicago downtown hospitality landscape, including competitor offerings and client needs, can significantly contribute to success in soliciting new business and maintaining client loyalty.
- What is the expected experience level for this Catering Sales Manager position?
- The position requires a minimum of one to three years of hotel catering or convention sales experience. While a high school diploma is required, an associate's or bachelor's degree is preferred.
- Are there any certifications that are beneficial for this Catering Sales Manager role?
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