Catering / Event Manager

Event Sales Specialist - Tabor Hill Winery

Location: Hybrid (70% Remote, 30% On-site)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years preferred)

About Tabor Hill Winery

Join our dynamic team at Tabor Hill Winery, where exceptional wines meet unforgettable experiences. We specialize in creating magical moments through weddings, corporate events, and innovative culinary experiences that showcase our passion for wine and hospitality.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Event Sales Specialist to drive revenue growth through strategic sales of our premium event services. This hybrid role offers the flexibility of remote work while maintaining essential on-site presence for client meetings and event oversight. The successful candidate will focus primarily on the Chicago market, developing relationships and securing high-value bookings. This role will work as part of an in-house sales team.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Business Development

• Generate new business through prospecting, networking, and relationship building in the Chicago market
• Conduct compelling sales presentations and venue tours for potential clients
• Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline for weddings, corporate events, and culinary experiences
• Achieve minimum annual sales target of $650,000 in booked event revenue
• Exceed targets to unlock bonus opportunities and commission increases

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as primary point of contact for prospects throughout the sales process
• Collaborate with event planning team to ensure seamless transition from sales to execution
• Build long-term relationships with corporate clients, wedding planners, and event coordinators
• Respond to inquiries and RFPs in a timely, professional manner

Market Development

• Maintain deep knowledge of the Chicago events market, including competitors and industry trends
• Attend industry trade shows, networking events, and promotional activities
• Partner with local vendors, planners, and venues to generate referral business
• Represent Tabor Hill Winery at Chicago-area bridal shows and corporate events

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Sales, Marketing, Hospitality, or related field or equivalent experience in the industry

• 3-5 years of event sales experience, preferably in hospitality, venues, or catering
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets of $500K+ annually
• Strong knowledge of the Chicago market and established local network preferred
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills

• Proficiency in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite, Tripleseat, Toast.

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel within the Chicago and Midwest metropolitan area

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in wedding and corporate event sales

• Knowledge of wine, food and culinary industries

• Existing relationships with Chicago and Michigan-area event planners and corporate decision-makers

• Experience with hybrid/remote work environments

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $50,000 annually

• Minimum Sales Target: $850,000 in annual booked event revenue

• Commission: 5% on all booked events (paid upon full client payment)

• Performance Bonuses: Additional bonuses available for exceeding quarterly/annual sales targets

• Commission Increases: Enhanced commission rates for sales performance above target negotiable after the first year

• Work Arrangement: 70% remote, 30% on-site flexibility
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Wine education opportunities and product discounts

• Paid time off and holiday schedule 

Performance Incentives

Our compensation structure rewards high performers with:

• Quarterly bonuses for exceeding targets
• Increased commission rates (up to 7%) for top performers

• Annual performance bonuses based on revenue and performance achievement

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work with a respected winery brand
• Flexible hybrid work environment
• Uncapped earning potential with performance-based increases
• Collaborative and supportive team culture
• Access to exclusive industry events and networking opportunities
• Career growth potential within expanding organization