Catering Event Sales Manager

Nothing beats the power of being at a live event. That's why we're proud to announce the launch of Sodexo Live!, our brand dedicated to the sports, events and hospitality industry. We concentrate all of our skills, insight, and experience into one brand that instinctively knows how to make the most of every moment. **Let's go Live! together. Sodexo Live! is the Official Supplier of Food and Beverage Services to the Vancouver Convention Centre. We have amazing people and are proud to say, we love working here!**
We are currently seeking a highly motivated, service-oriented individual to join our Catering Department in a **full-time, CATERING MANAGER. **Reporting to the Director of Catering, this role is responsible for:
**Events (Conventions, Meetings, Banquets, Satellite Events, Exhibitor Orders &
Trade and Consumer Shows)**
- In concert with the Client Service Team or Executive Events Team, manage all Food and Beverage aspects of assigned Convention or Meeting events independently and proactively, including menu planning, budget proposals, revenue forecasting, food and beverage logistics planning, detail finalization and confirmation. This may include but is not limited to city-wide conventions, conferences, meetings, trade shows and consumer shows.
- Proactively sell, book and confirm all types of stand-alone Banquet events (weddings, fundraisers, holiday parties etc.)
- Manage the complete standalone event cycle from inquiry, site inspection, proposal, sales contract, first deposit to production logistics and final food and beverage program.
- Understand client’s overall event program, objectives, needs and expectations. Monitor client’s plan and budgets, and customize our service deliveries accordingly.
- Identify and maximize revenue opportunities.
- Work with client’s assigned PCO, DMC or event decorator to deliver a seamless event.
- Assist the Sales Department in client site inspections and Fam trips, including organizing and co-hosting Chef’s Tables and designing themed events, to promote food and beverage at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
**GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES**:
- Support the Purpose, Values, Service Process and Standards as established by the Vancouver Convention Centre.
- Maintain a good understanding of Vancouver Convention Centre’s Facility Services Guide and adhere to established Catering Guidelines.
- Comply with all governmental / regulatory policies, laws and standards.
- Provide excellent customer service to BC Pavilion Company as our client, and all external and internal customers.
- Communicate continually and effectively with Sales Managers, Event Managers, and representatives from all departments, maintaining professional manner at all times.
- Understand the role and services of Vancouver Convention Centre suppliers and develop a strong working relationship with them to provide seamless services to our clients.
- Respond to all inquiries, following up in a timely and persistent manner.
- Ensure that proper food and beverage deposit schedules are in place and followed to minimize financial risks to Centerplate and the Vancouver Convention Centre.
- Always maintain up-to-date information in our event database, EBMS.
- Generate Service Orders or Event Resume with clear and complete details.
- Clearly communicate client’s requirements and expectations with Executive Chef and other Senior Chefs, the F&
B Management team and other relevant department leaders, to ensure successful execution of all food and beverage functions.
- Effectively anticipate any issues and persistently pursue the best solution.
- Attend and effectively contribute to all weekly operations and management meetings.
- Keep abreast of industry trends and local competition. Endeavor to be involved in community/business groups, promoting and enhancing the image of the Vancouver Convention Centre.
- Assist in various projects as assigned by Director of Catering.
**KEY REQUIREMENTS**:
- Bachelor degree or diploma level education in Hospitality or Business preferred.
- A minimum of three years’ experience in a similar capacity - preferably in a high quality hotel or convention centre.
- Must be highly organized, detail-oriented and self-motivated, with the ability to effectively manage time and coordinate various activities in a complex, demanding environment.
- Previous experience in food and beverage operations is a definite asset.
- Exceptional focus on service excellence and a passion for contributing to client’s success.
- Business savvy and possess a strong sense of quality in food and beverage and events.
- Positive and professional attitude, with the ability to model our high standard of guest service, in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong ability to manage own workload independently and collaborate well in teams.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong English fluency and advanced interpersonal skills.
- Advanced administrative skills along with related experience