Event Sales Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Horizon Realty Group is a family-owned and operated property management company established in 1980. One of its premier assets is The Crystal Ballroom and Lounge – an incredible wedding and event venue in the Chicagoland area. The Crystal Ballroom is a newly restored event space that can take guests beyond their wildest dreams. From its timeless décor to our sophisticated culinary approach, no detail is overlooked. From a venue for weddings and Mitzvah celebrations to corporate meetings and holiday parties, the Crystal Ballroom can accommodate a wide variety of needs. We have a great Event Sales Manager opportunity available. We are looking for someone that loves to sell and engage with customers to help them create a unique experience and have the perfect event for their special occasion. 

Summary:

The Event Sales Manager is responsible for managing the full event lifecycle, from the initial inquiry and booking through planning, preparation, and final execution. The Sales Manager serves as the primary point of contact for clients and the central coordinator for each assigned event, overseeing contracts, client communications, event details, vendors, staff coordination, and on-site execution. This is a hands-on position requiring strong sales, organization, communication, problem-solving, and event management skills, with the Sales Manager taking ownership of the client experience and event execution from beginning to end. The position is a full-time salaried position with a base salary + earnable commissions.

Responsibilities:

1. Own the full event sales process from initial inquiry though booking, including responding to all online inquiries, phone calls, emails, and leads; conducting follow-up; preparing proposals; and converting leads into booked events.

2. Conduct venue tours, client meetings, tastings, and consultations while building strong client relationships and serving as the primary point of contact throughout the planning process.

3. Manage contract negotiations, payments, deposits, invoices, and client accounts, ensuring all financial and contractural details are accurate and up to date.

4. Plan and coordinate all event details, including floor plans, room layouts, timelines, BEOs, setup requirements, special requests, and other documentation necessary for successful execution.

5. Coordinate with internal departments and staff to communicate event details, client expectations, timelines, menus, setup requirements, and responsibilities before each event.

6. Coordinate all outside vendors involved with events, including communicating arrival times, setup requirements, access needs, venue policies, and other logistical details.

7. Manage and maintain the venue's online profiles and event information, ensuring the Crystal Ballroom is accurately and effectively represented across online platforms.

8. Represent the Crystal Ballroom at outside marketing and lead-generation events, including bridal shows, community events, networking events, and other promotional opportunities.

9. Serve as the primary on-site lead and point of contact for assigned events, remaining on-site from pre-event setup through the conclusion of the event. 

10. Oversee and participate in event setup, including table placement, linens, room layouts, and other physical details to ensure the venue is prepared according to the client's plans and specifications.

11. Create and lead pre-event staff meetings and timelines, ensuring all staff and departments understand the event schedule, client expectations, responsibilities, and special requirements.

12. Oversee the execution of the event from beginning to end, ensuring contracted services, event details, and client expectations are properly carried out and maintaining direct commuication with the client throughout the event.

13. Take ownership of issues that arise before or during events, proactively coordinating with staff, vendors, and department heads to resolve problems and ensure a successful client experience.

14. Maintain accurate client and event records in Event Pro and other applicable systems, including leads, contracts, payments, event details, and follow-up, while managing multiple events and priorities simultaneously.

Qualifications and Skills:

• High School Diploma, some college preferred.
• (3) three years of sales experience in the hospitality or event sales industry
• A true desire to satisfy the needs of others in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must be proficient in general computer knowledge and CRM system (Event Pro experience is a plus!)
• Extremely detail oriented and organized team player.