Job Description: The Catering Account Executive is responsible for seeking out new clients who are interested in holding catered events. The CAE will develop creative, detailed event proposals and banquet event orders based upon client vision and expectations. This position will be responsible for conducting venue tours, scheduling menu tastings and coordinating all client meetings. Additional responsibilities include attending industry and association networking events.

Impact and Influence:

This position will interact on a regular basis with Sales & Marketing Director, Off-Premise Sales Team, Operations Team and Culinary team to help create award-winning, flawless events.

Key Responsibilities:

Duties may include but are not limited to:

• Prospecting for new clients
• Prequalify all walk-in and call-in leads (client contact, date, time, number of guests, location any other pertinent information) Place all lead information into Prospect Manager and inform appropriate sales manager
• Maintain existing client relationships through Caterease database - follow-up calls, emails, notes and bi-monthly sales calls/drops to assigned venues
• Create personalized and timely proposals/sample menus based on clients’ needs; create contracts, purchase orders & vendor invoices
• Create & distribute floor plans with sales manager and reviewing with Ops team
• Timely communication to the Operations and Culinary teams for all events through detailed Banquet Event Orders & kitchen sheets
• Immediate communication to Operations and Culinary teams regarding any last minute bookings or event changes
• Handle scheduling and any special request or needs for client tastings at corporate office
• Make a presence at all contracted events
• Ensure all billing procedures are followed for each event; confirm that deposits are received and processed through Accounting. Work with Accounting to complete any client refunds for overpayment.
• Submit timely expense reporting
• Attend all BEO meetings
• Assist with design and décor elements as needed
• Attend networking events; HSMAI, GAMPI, NACE, ACVB, ISES, SHRM, GSAE
• Assist with preparation for all marketing, PR, networking, bridal mixers, etc.
• Create a purchase order packet (obtain and communicate PO approvals for each vendor relating to rentals or services outside of catering)

Education, Specialized Knowledge, and Experience:

In order to narrow down our search and applicant pool, we are requiring that ALL candidates meet the following necessary qualifications in order to apply:

• Must live within 25 miles of Atlanta, GA 30305
• Must be a team player, well organized, strong computer skills
• Must have Food and Beverage background w/ ability to create custom menus
• Experience with prospecting, selling and negotiating skills

Specialized Skills:

• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Self-directed
• Flexible
• Creative
• Connected to current food and beverage trends and pricing
• Diplomacy
• Excellent listening skills and previous experience in customer service or retail

• Desire to win
• Strong follow-up skills
• Experience with Caterease is a plus