Catering Sales & Conference Services Manager

We're People People. Are you?

We're Sonesta International Hotels-the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S. (and growing fast ).

With a dynamic mix of full-service and focused hotels across major cities, our diverse portfolio of owned, managed, and franchised properties means we're everywhere our guests need us to be.

But here's the thing-we're not just in the business of hotels, we're in the business of people. We bring service with passion, loyalty with purpose, and create experiences that genuinely connect-delivering quality, value, and memorable stays across 1,000+ properties in eight countries (and counting).

What this role is all about

The Catering Sales Manager & Conference Services Manager is a hybrid role responsible for generating catering and group event business while managing the full planning and execution of meetings, events, and social functions. This dynamic position also includes critical administrative responsibilities that ensure seamless coordination between departments and top-tier client experiences.

You'll handle everything from prospecting and proposal development to Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), client communication, and on-site event oversight. This is the perfect role for a results-driven, organized hospitality professional with a passion for sales, event planning, and operational excellence.

What you'll be doing

Sales Generation & Client Development

• Actively solicit new catering and group business through prospecting, lead follow-up, networking, and community engagement.
• Respond to inquiries, qualify leads, create proposals, and close sales with a focus on revenue growth and client satisfaction.
• Conduct property tours and client presentations to promote hotel services and secure bookings.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, menus, and rental terms in accordance with hotel goals and standards.
• Maintain relationships with past and current clients to drive repeat and referral business.
• Collaborate with the Director of Sales & Marketing to implement sales strategies and hit monthly and annual sales goals.
• Represent the hotel at industry events, sales missions, and promotional functions as needed.

Event Planning & Conference Services

• Serve as the main point of contact for clients from contract to post-event follow-up.
• Plan and coordinate all aspects of events including space setup, menus, audiovisual needs, décor, timelines, and vendor services.
• Lead pre-event meetings with clients and internal teams to ensure alignment and preparation.
• Monitor on-site event execution, troubleshoot in real time, and ensure guest satisfaction.
• Prepare and distribute accurate and timely BEOs, group resumes, amenity requests, and floor plans.
• Coordinate with operations, banquets, culinary, and housekeeping teams for flawless delivery.
• Review event billing, process payments, and resolve any discrepancies in a timely manner.

Administrative Support & Coordination

• Maintain organized and up-to-date client files in Delphi (or similar CRM), including contracts, correspondence, menus, and change logs.
• Create daily event reports, function sheets, change sheets, reader boards, and signage for internal use and client communication.
• Process invoices, deposits, check logs, and ensure compliance with company billing procedures.
• Manage the department calendar, meeting schedules, and task deadlines.
• Support the sales team in tracking leads, generating reports, and updating marketing collateral.
• Assist with department-hosted events and promotional activities, including client appreciation events, hotel showcases, and holiday functions.
• Respond to client and vendor calls and emails, and assist with general inquiries regarding catering and group functions.

Guest & Team Engagement

• Deliver exceptional, personalized service to all guests and clients, consistently anticipating needs.

• Represent the hotel brand with professionalism and warmth during every client interaction.

• Uphold the G.U.E.S.T. model:

• Greet warmly

• Use guest names

• Establish/anticipate needs

• Solve and own requests

• Thank every guest

• Promote positive relationships with colleagues across all hotel departments.

• Support a team culture of hospitality excellence, respect, and accountability.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Business, or related field preferred.
• 2-4 years' experience in catering sales, conference services, or hotel event management.
• Experience with Delphi, Opera, or comparable sales/event systems is strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to manage client relationships and deliver revenue growth through upselling and service.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs., stand/walk for long periods during event oversight.
• Food Handler's Permit and Alcohol Awareness Certification (as required by local law).
• Valid driver's license may be required.

What We Offer:

• A collaborative, success-driven work environment
• Exposure to all areas of hotel sales, marketing, and operations
• Opportunities for advancement in Sales, Catering, and leadership roles
• Direct impact on hotel performance and client satisfaction
• A role where no two days are the same-ideal for creative, service-minded professionals

Join us in creating memorable experiences that drive revenue and build lifelong guest relationships. If you love selling, planning, and executing extraordinary events, this role is for you.

Anticipated Pay Range & Additional Job Information

Pay range $70,000 to $75,000. Base pay offered may vary depending on various factors including but not limited to job related knowledge, skills, and job specific experience/overall experience.

How we reward you

At Sonesta, we know showing up for our guests starts with showing up for our people. That means supporting your health, your financial future, and everything in between.

Here's a snapshot of what we offer:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account with Company Match
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Paid Vacation and Sick Days
• Sonesta Hotel Discounts
• Educational Assistance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Company Paid Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance
• Various Employee Perks and Discounts
• Hospital Indemnity
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance

Our Commitment to You

Sonesta is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Before You Apply

To be considered, please complete the full application in addition to submitting your resume. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the

Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.