Catering Event Sales / Event Specialist
Job Title: Catering Event Sales Representative
The Catering Company of Chapel Hill
The Catering Company of Chapel Hill is an established, award-winning catering and event management company serving weddings, corporate events, university functions, nonprofit galas, and private celebrations throughout the Triangle.
We believe exceptional events are built on great food, thoughtful planning, and flawless execution. We're seeking an experienced event professional who can guide clients from their first inquiry through event day while delivering outstanding service and driving sales growth.
Position Summary:
This role combines event planning, client relationship management, and catering sales. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable discussing menu design, coordinating rental orders, managing event logistics, and building trusted relationships with clients.
You will oversee events from initial consultation through execution, serving as the primary point of contact for clients while collaborating closely with our culinary and operations teams.
Success in this role requires exceptional attention to detail, proactive communication, and the ability to independently manage multiple events in various stages of planning.
Responsibilities:
Client & Sales Management
- Respond to inquiries and convert leads into booked events.
- Conduct client consultations and venue walkthroughs.
- Develop customized catering proposals, budgets, and contracts.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing clients.
- Generate repeat business through exceptional service and follow-up.
- Represent the company at networking events, venue showcases, and industry functions.
Event Planning & Coordination
- Manage event logistics from booking through event completion.
- Create detailed event timelines and production schedules.
- Coordinate rentals, vendors, venues, and event partners.
- Review floorplans, layouts, and service requirements.
- Ensure all event details are communicated accurately to culinary and operations teams.
- Troubleshoot challenges proactively and maintain a high level of client confidence.
Menu & Production Planning
- Guide clients through menu selection and event design.
- Collaborate with chefs and production staff on customized menus.
- Maintain a strong understanding of food presentation, service styles, and catering logistics.
- Stay informed on industry trends, dietary preferences, and hospitality best practices.
Administrative Responsibilites
- Maintain accurate client records and sales activity.
- Ensure contracts, invoices, and event documentation are completed accurately and on time.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Minimum 2–3 years of experience in catering, hospitality, event planning, venue management, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of event logistics, rentals, timelines, and guest flow.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously.
- Professional, client-focused demeanor.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
Preferred:
- Experience in catering sales or wedding/event planning.
- Knowledge of catering software (Total Party Planner or similar).
- Experience using Microsoft Office and Canva.
- Degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Marketing, or related field.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Performance-based commissions and bonus opportunities
- 401(k) matching
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for advancement
Schedule
- Full-time
- Monday–Friday
- Some evenings and weekends required based on event schedules
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume along with a brief cover letter describing your event planning and client management experience.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Paid time off
Application Question(s):
- For a buffet serving 10 menu items plus plates and flatware, what buffet table configuration would you recommend?
- (Please don't use AI to answer the following questions, that doesn't help us know what you know, and how you think about event planning!)
For a 100-guest cocktail-style reception, approximately how many cocktail tables would you recommend and why?
*
For a 200-guest hors d'oeuvres reception using stemless wine glasses for all beverages, approximately how many glasses would you rent?
*
Describe the basic rental elements needed for a full-service catered event.
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Event planning: 2 years (Required)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
- Night Shift (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Chapel Hill, NC 27514: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
