Special Events Sales Manager

About the role

The Special Events Sales Manager owns the full sales cycle for private dining and group events—prospecting, qualifying, closing, and executing business. This role is equal parts strategic sales driver and client experience leader, responsible for generating new revenue, maximizing existing opportunities, and ensuring seamless execution from initial inquiry through event completion. You will serve as the primary client contact while partnering cross-functionally with culinary, beverage, and operations teams to bring each event to life at the highest level.

This role offers a clear and exciting growth trajectory, with the opportunity to evolve into senior leadership positions within the organization for high performers who consistently drive results and build strong client relationships.

Essential Responsibilities

• Generate, qualify, and convert leads for private dining, group events, off-site events, and full restaurant buyouts.
• Achieve and exceed annual revenue goals for special events and private dining.
• Develop and execute strategic sales plans, including quarterly outreach and market development initiatives.
• Respond to all event inquiries within 24 hours with menus, availability, and pricing.
• Build and maintain relationships with corporate clients, hotel concierges, DMCs, wedding planners, studios, and local partners.
• Proactively prospect within the local market through networking events, client meetings, and industry engagements.
• Maintain and grow client databases to support repeat business and ongoing outreach.
• Identify upsell opportunities and cultivate long-term client partnerships.

Event Planning & Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients from inquiry through planning and pre-event coordination.
• Prepare proposals, estimates, contracts, and Banquet Event Orders (BEOs).
• Manage all event details including menus, pricing, minimums, timelines, and logistics based on client needs.
• Cook with beverage teams on wine selections and banquet beverage programs.
• Work with operations and scheduling teams to communicate staffing needs for events.
• Participate in BEO meetings and maintain alignment across departments on upcoming events.
• Ensure all internal teams are fully briefed and prepared for event execution.

Event Execution & Operations Support (As Needed)

• Support onsite execution for full restaurant buyouts and larger-scale events as needed.
• Collaborate with Banquet Captains and service teams to ensure smooth service flow and adherence to planned event details.
• Address client needs onsite with professionalism, discretion, and urgency when present.
• Ensure alignment between planned event details and execution standards.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records of all client communications, contracts, and event details in CRM/event systems.
• Cook with accounting on invoicing, deposits, and accounts receivable (A/R).
• Send post-event invoices and assist with payment tracking.
• Support financial reporting and ensure accuracy across systems.
• Aid in maintaining documentation and updates related to event sales performance.

Brand Representation

• Represent Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group at industry events, networking functions, and community activations.
• Partner with marketing on outreach initiatives, promotions, and database growth.
• Contribute to brand visibility through consistent client engagement and relationship-building efforts.

Hospitality Standards & Culture

• Consistently uphold Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group service standards and brand values.
• Act as a brand ambassador in all internal and external interactions.
• Maintain professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality at all times.
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented culture across departments.