Event Planning Manager (Catering Manager Wedding Market) (Chicago)

Reports to: Director of Sales and Catering & Assistant Director of Catering

Position Summary: The Event Planning Manager is responsible for driving revenue through the booking, planning, and execution of group and social events. This role manages all event details from initial inquiry through completion, ensuring a seamless and exceptional experience for clients and guests. The Event Planning Manager also actively solicits new business within assigned catering markets, develops client relationships, and works toward achieving and exceeding established booking and revenue goals.

Essential Functions:

➢ Manage existing accounts and proactively follow up with clients and members to resolicit business, strengthen relationships, and secure future event opportunities.

➢ Finalizes BEO’s weekly and has all information published for weekly distribution.

➢ Prepare detailed event resumes for upcoming functions and review them with the Operations team to ensure all event requirements, timelines, and client expectations are clearly communicated and executed.

➢ Manage event inquiries within the assigned market, develop proposals, and contract bookings while ensuring appropriate Food & Beverage minimums, guestroom rates, meeting space requirements, and other contractual terms are accurately established to maximize revenue and meet business objectives.

➢ Prospects for new business and help increase revenues and participate in sales calls to promote the club; give site tours to promote the Club

➢ Attend daily BEO meetings to review function details

➢ Have comprehensive knowledge of all operational departments within the Club; Front desk, Club services, housekeeping, audio visual, accounting, restaurants, bars, and engineering

➢ Ensure that all billing and charges for services are rendered.

➢ Enforces the service standards for all banquet events, meetings and related operations including innovative and creative food and beverage/bar displays.

➢ Handles member/guest complaints and works to provide a solution in a timely and professional manner.

➢ Bonus eligibility and goals will begin after the initial 90-day employment period and will apply to the following quarter.

➢ Promotes a positive work environment, and a positive team atmosphere with other Banquet, Catering and Culinary management and staff.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in marketing or hospitality management or any other combination of education, training or experience that provides the required knowledge skills and abilities.

Experience: Must have at least 1-2 years of Catering Sales or Event planning. Experience in a luxury Hotel or Club setting is preferred.

Additional Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook is required, excellent communication, organization, and service-oriented people skills. Experience working with Delphi.