Catering & Business Development Manager

Location

Southern California (Hybrid)

Compensation

Competitive Base Salary + Bonus Opportunity

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an ambitious and relationship-driven Catering & Business Development Manager to lead sales growth, develop strategic partnerships, and expand catering revenue for a growing hospitality brand.

This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a client-facing environment, enjoys building new business opportunities, and has a passion for hospitality, events, and community engagement. The successful candidate will play a key role in expanding market presence, developing long-term client relationships, and creating new revenue streams through catering and special events.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Sales

• Identify and develop new catering and event sales opportunities
• Build relationships with corporate clients, community organizations, schools, sports groups, and local businesses
• Conduct outbound prospecting through networking, referrals, phone outreach, and email campaigns
• Manage the full sales cycle from lead generation through contract execution
• Create customized proposals and solutions based on client needs
• Maintain a strong pipeline of opportunities and provide regular sales activity reporting

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for catering and event clients
• Deliver exceptional customer service throughout the planning and execution process
• Develop strategies to increase repeat business and long-term account retention
• Coordinate client tastings, presentations, and relationship-building meetings

Event & Catering Operations

• Partner with operations teams to ensure successful execution of catering orders and special events
• Coordinate logistics, scheduling, and communication across multiple stakeholders
• Manage event details, documentation, invoicing, and order accuracy
• Resolve client concerns and operational challenges in a professional and timely manner

Community Engagement & Brand Growth

• Develop relationships with local organizations and community leaders
• Identify opportunities for sponsorships, partnerships, and event participation
• Represent the company at networking events, community functions, and promotional activities
• Support initiatives that increase local brand awareness and customer engagement

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with operations, marketing, and leadership teams to support growth objectives
• Assist in evaluating systems, processes, and tools that improve efficiency and customer experience
• Track key performance metrics related to sales, revenue growth, and client acquisition

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in catering sales, hospitality sales, event sales, business development, or related fields
• Proven ability to generate new business and build client relationships
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Experience managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively
• Experience with CRM systems, catering software, or POS platforms is preferred
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally throughout Southern California

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Naturally outgoing and relationship-oriented
• Self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
• Sales-minded with a passion for growing revenue
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Passionate about hospitality, events, and community involvement

Schedule & Work Environment

• This hybrid position combines remote work with regular field visits, client meetings, networking events, and operational support. Occasional evening and weekend availability may be required based on business needs and event schedules.