Catering Sales & Business Development ManagerCompensation & Benefits
· Base Salary: Competitive Salary annually (based on experience)
· Competitive commission structure in addition to Base Salary
· Opportunity for Quarterly performance bonus for exceeding sales goals
· Annual performance bonus based on department revenue and profitability
· Expected total compensation for a successful performer: $70,000- $85,000+
Benefits:
- Matching 401(k) (up to 4%)
- Paid Vacation:
- Paid holidays and personal days
- Employee dining privileges
- Professional development opportunities
- Networking memberships and community involvement
Help Shape the Future of One of Connecticut’s Premier Event Venues.
For over 55 years, The Amber Room Colonnade has been one of Connecticut's premier event destinations. Located on 26 beautifully landscaped acres in Danbury, we host more than 300 events annually, including weddings, galas, fundraisers, corporate meetings, holiday parties, mitzvahs, celebrations, and community events.
Since opening in 1969, we have welcomed three United States Presidents, distinguished guests from around the world, and thousands of families celebrating life's most meaningful moments. The Amber Room has earned a reputation for exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and an unwavering commitment to customization.
Our philosophy is simple:
“Our reputation is only as good as today's performance.”
Every phone call, tour, proposal and follow-up represents an opportunity to create a lifelong client relationship. We believe that genuine hospitality begins long before an event takes place, and every interaction should reflect our commitment to excellence.
Position Overview
The Catering Sales & Business Development Manager is responsible for generating new business, cultivating long-term client relationships, maximizing revenue opportunities, and ensuring every client receives exceptional service from the first inquiry through the conclusion of every event. This individual serves as an ambassador for The Amber Room throughout the community.
Business Development
· Generate new corporate, wedding, nonprofit, and social event business.
· Generate referrals from existing clients
· Build relationships with local corporations
· Follow up with past clients to generate repeat business
· Prospect through networking, referrals, cold calling, and community outreach.
· Develop strategic partnerships and new revenue opportunities.
· Attend networking events, trade shows, and Chamber functions.
· Create lead lists and identify emerging markets.
Sales & Client Relations
· Respond to all emails and inquiries within one business day during operational hours.
· Conduct engaging venue tours with a consistent focus on hospitality.
· Follow up promptly with every inquiry; maintain a minimum of three meaningful follow-ups.
· Develop long-term client relationships and generate repeat business.
· Customize proposals based on each client's vision and budget.
· Understand all menus, enhancements, pricing, ingredients, allergens, and dietary accommodations.
Revenue Management
· Maximize revenue through thoughtful upselling and present enhancements that improve the guest experience.
· Protect pricing integrity by minimizing unnecessary discounts.
· Collaborate with ownership and culinary leadership on menu development.
· Understand event profitability and collaborate on menu pricing
· Minimize credit card deposits whenever practical.
Marketing & Brand Development
· Assist with social media content and event photography.
· Develop marketing campaigns and monitor industry trends.
· Build relationships with planners, vendors and community organizations.
· Maintain accurate online listings and generate ideas to increase exposure.
Event Management
· Understand event operations from inquiry through breakdown.
· Review event logistics including entrances, exits and vendor coordination
· Guide clients through menus, layouts, timelines and enhancements.
· Prepare detailed Banquet Event Orders.
· Collaborate with culinary and banquet teams.
· Greet clients at the start of events whenever possible.
Administrative Responsibilities
· Maintain CRM records and document client interactions.
· Prepare contracts and proposals.
· Update menus and sales materials.
· Participate in and prepare for weekly sales meetings.
· Utilize AI and emerging technologies to improve sales efficiency, marketing, client communications, proposal writing, and business development.
· Track marketing contracts
· Maintain organized client files
Qualifications
· 3+ years of hospitality, catering, hotel, or event sales experience preferred.
· Bachelor's Degree preferred.
· Strong communication, organization, and closing skills.
· Understanding of Caterease program preferred
· CRM, Microsoft Office, and social media proficiency.
· AI experience (ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, etc.) preferred.
· Availability for some evenings, weekends, and networking events.
Performance Expectations
· Meet or exceed sales goals.
· Deliver exceptional venue tours and client service.
· Generate repeat business.
· Represent The Amber Room professionally.
· Actively participate in the Greater Danbury community.
Our Culture
At The Amber Room, hospitality is more than a profession, it's who we are. We believe in teamwork, integrity, continuous improvement, and exceeding expectations. Every interaction is an opportunity to create a memorable experience.
The Right Fit
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys building relationships, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and takes pride in creating exceptional experiences. We are looking for someone who wants to become part of the Amber Room family and help shape the next chapter of our story.
What We’re Looking Fo
We're looking for someone who is...
✔ Passionate about hospitality ✔ Detail oriented
✔ A strong communicator ✔ Tech savvy
✔ Comfortable networking ✔ Self-motivated
✔ Relationship driven ✔ Naturally outgoing
✔ Exceptionally organized ✔ Creative
✔ Excited to represent one of Connecticut's premier event venues
If you're passionate about hospitality, enjoy building relationships, and are looking for an opportunity to grow your career with Amber Room, we'd love to hear from you.
Pay: $45,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
