Catering Sales Manager

Description

We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Catering Sales Manager to join our team at The Westin Chicago Northwest in Itasca, Illinois. The ideal candidate will bring proven catering sales experience, strong relationship-building skills, and a genuine enthusiasm for creating exceptional guest experiences. Prior catering sales experience is required; experience with Marriott systems and standards is a plus, though not required.

About The Westin Chicago Northwest

The Westin Chicago Northwest is a full-service Marriott hotel located in Itasca, Illinois, serving both business and leisure travelers as well as a wide variety of meetings, weddings, social events, and corporate functions. With extensive meeting and event space, the hotel provides an exciting environment for a Catering Sales Manager to build client relationships, generate new business, and create memorable events in partnership with our experienced hotel team.

About Crescent Hotels & Resorts

At Crescent Hotels & Resorts, we are a team of hospitality professionals who take pride in creating exceptional experiences for our guests. More importantly, we know our Associates are the shining stars of what we do. We encourage you to bring your true self to work every day as we support your growth and celebrate your success. You Belong. We Care. Shine Bright.

This role typically follows a Tuesday through Saturday schedule; however, flexibility is essential to accommodate business demands and client needs.

The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for maximizing banquet food and beverage revenue, meeting room rental, and guest room revenue while consistently delivering exceptional guest service. This position will proactively solicit new social and corporate business while maintaining and strengthening relationships with existing clients.

Key responsibilities include conducting site inspections and property tours, responding to client inquiries, prospecting and developing new business, preparing proposals and contracts, creating customized menus, and coordinating event arrangements. The Catering Sales Manager will develop and deliver compelling sales presentations, assess client needs, negotiate pricing, and identify opportunities to maximize revenue and guest satisfaction.

The Catering Sales Manager will oversee event details from initial planning through execution, including attending and supervising event setup and implementation. This role will work closely with all hotel departments to ensure accurate communication and seamless service delivery. The position will also prepare and present weekly and monthly Catering/Sales reports to track sales activity and performance.

The successful candidate will have strong knowledge of Food & Beverage service standards, guest relations, and hospitality etiquette. Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to interact professionally and diplomatically with both internal and external guests.

This role may also assist with training and supporting Catering Associates, providing open communication and guidance when appropriate. The Catering Sales Manager is expected to demonstrate professionalism, adaptability, strong work habits, and a willingness to learn and develop new skills while responding effectively to changing hotel and business needs.

At Crescent, every Associate is a guest relations ambassador. This position is expected to consistently treat guests and fellow Associates with courtesy and respect while supporting a positive guest and Associate experience.

Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support the ongoing needs of the hotel.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.