Key ResponsibilitiesSales and Business DevelopmentGenerate new business through inbound inquiries, prospecting, networking, referrals, venue relationships, and industry connectionsDevelop and maintain strong relationships with prospective and existing clientsBuild relationships with event venues, meeting planners, corporate contacts, event professionals, and industry partnersConduct client consultations and understand event objectives, priorities, guest expectations, and budgetsDevelop customized catering and event proposals that meet client needs while supporting company goalsPresent menus, services, event concepts, and pricing to clientsGuide clients through the sales process from initial inquiry through signed contract and depositIdentify opportunities to increase event revenue through additional services, menu enhancements, beverage, rentals, and other event needsMaintain an active sales pipeline and follow up consistently with prospective clientsEvent Planning and Client ManagementServe as the primary client contact throughout the planning processPrepare proposals, contracts, invoices, timelines, and other event documentationDevelop a detailed understanding of each client's event, including menu, guest count, schedule, venue requirements, rentals, staffing, and special requestsCoordinate menu meetings, tastings, planning meetings, and other client appointmentsWork closely with culinary, operations, staffing, and event teams to communicate client expectations and event detailsAttend sales, menu, production, and planning meetings as requiredIdentify potential challenges before the event and work with the appropriate teams to develop solutionsMonitor account balances and manage accounts receivable, including timely collection of outstanding paymentsAttend venue visits and client meetings as neededAttend and oversee assigned client events to support successful execution and strengthen client relationshipsBusiness Development and Industry EngagementParticipate in networking events, trade shows, venue open houses, and industry associationsRepresent Catering by Michaels professionally at community, hospitality, and business eventsDevelop and maintain relationships that generate future business opportunitiesMonitor industry trends, competitor activity, and opportunities within the Chicago catering and events marketStay current on Catering by Michaels menus, services, capabilities, and event offeringsQualificationsMinimum of 3 years of successful off-premise catering sales experience with a proven record of resultsBachelor's degree from an accredited institution, or 4 or more years of relevant experience in hospitality, catering, event planning, or culinary salesDemonstrated ability to sell and manage events ranging from 10 to 1,000+ guestsStrong understanding of the off-premise catering and events businessExperience with Caterease or similar event management software preferredStrong relationship-building and client service skillsExcellent verbal and written communication skillsStrong sales ability and confidence presenting proposals and pricing to clientsHighly organized with the ability to manage multiple events, deadlines, and priorities simultaneouslyStrong business judgment, problem-solving skills, and attention to detailPassion for food, beverage, hospitality, and live eventsKnowledge of wine, spirits, and beer preferredProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and OutlookProfessional appearance and demeanorAbility to work independently while collaborating effectively with culinary, operations, sales, and event teamsActive involvement in professional catering, hospitality, or related organizations preferredFlexible schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays based on client and event needsWork EnvironmentThis position is based at our Morton Grove, Illinois office and supports events throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Scratch kitchen with a commitment to culinary excellenceSustainability leader, certified by both Green Restaurant and Green SealExperience executing major events including Lollapalooza, the NFL Draft, the Black Creativity Gala, premier golf tournaments, and the University of Chicago Alumni WeekendMember of the prestigious Leading Caterers of America organizationFull-service and drop-off catering solutions serving Chicago and the surrounding suburbsOur business is built on relationships.