Catering Manager

Nestled in Nashville’s heart since 1910, “the Hermitage Hotel”—Nashville’s original million dollar landmark and the storied backdrop of generations of gatherings—continues to uphold its timeless motto: “Meet me at The Hermitage.” A National Historic Landmark since 2020, our iconic Beaux Arts architecture connects history and modern luxury under one welcoming roof. Guided by Our Mission —our commitment to exceptional hospitality through highly personalized service delivered by exceptional staff—and shaped by six core values, we set the gold standard across luxury hospitality: Excellence – we continually raise the bar, surprising and delighting guests with poise and polish. Accountability – we take ownership of our goals, informed decisions, and guest satisfaction. Integrity – we act with consistent character, in every interaction, whether seen or unseen. Teamwork – we support one another in service, honesty, and respect, attending thoughtfully to every guest and teammate. Tradition – we honor the hotel’s legacy by ensuring our historic reputation grows brighter. Community – we are invested in Nashville’s well‑being and continue our role in civic enrichment. Our century‑plus evolution includes a respectful 2021–2022 restoration that refreshed our 122 suites while preserving arresting features like the marble lobby and stained‑glass ceiling—alongside the debut of refined dining experiences shaped by Michelin‑starred Chef Jean‑Georges Vongerichten. Why you’ll thrive here: When you join us, you become part of a team committed to preserving a cherished landmark and shaping its future—offering competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and a professionally rewarding environment where growth, collaboration, and pride in legacy go hand in hand. 2. Position Overview Reporting directly to the Senior Catering Sales Manager, the Catering Sales & Services Manager at The Hermitage Hotel will be responsible for foundational sales and services for weddings, social events and small one‑day‑only meetings. Success in this role is defined by precision, professionalism, and the consistent delivery of highly personalized guest experiences. The ideal candidate will bring prior event management experience and demonstrated interest in weddings and social events. This position is expected to uphold the hotel’s legacy of gracious hospitality while driving strong financial performance. 3. Key Responsibilities Sales & Business Development Prospect, negotiate, and secure small weddings (≤50 guests), social events, and local corporate business to meet or exceed established revenue goals while also supporting larger weddings and events booked by the Senior Catering Sales Manager. Conduct outside solicitation calls, client meetings, and tailored property tours with appropriate documentation and follow‑up. Respond promptly and professionally to all catering and group inquiries, managing leads through the full sales cycle. Develop and maintain strong client relationships to drive repeat and referral business. Collaborate with Sales and Culinary leadership to create customized proposals, menus, and event experiences. Maximize food, beverage, and ancillary revenue through strategic upselling, space utilization, and experiential enhancements. Act as a visible ambassador for the hotel within the local community to cultivate future business opportunities. Event Planning & Conference Services Manage all assigned events from contract execution through on‑site delivery and post‑event follow‑up. Prepare, distribute, and interpret contracts, BEOs, event resumes, schedules of events, and related documentation. Establish and maintain comprehensive files for each booking, ensuring accuracy and continuity. Review function space allocations for proper timing and layout to optimize both guest experience and revenue yield. Review event estimates, secure final guarantees within required timeframes, and ensure compliance with minimum and overset policies. Serve as the primary on‑site contact, meeting and greeting clients and key stakeholders while resolving issues with discretion and urgency. Conduct pre‑event meetings, menu readings, and event briefings with Culinary, Banquets, Stewarding, A/V, Engineering, Housekeeping, and Front Office teams. Partner with Operations to coordinate equipment needs, including china, glassware, silver, and specialty rentals. Operational Excellence & Reporting Utilize proper accounting, billing, and credit procedures; review all event billing for accuracy prior to submission. Ensure timely and accurate transfer of post‑event details to Accounting. Participate in weekly sales meetings, operational meetings, and business reviews as required. Inspect event spaces to ensure presentation, setup, and service align with established brand standards and expectations. 4. Qualifications & Requirements Experience & Technical Skills Minimum of two years of catering sales and/or conference services experience required. Prior experience in a luxury or upper‑upscale hotel environment strongly preferred. Comprehensive knowledge of banquet operations, event execution, and food and beverage service. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; experience with Delphi or similar CRM systems preferred. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a polished, professional presence. Leadership & Professional Attributes Goal‑oriented with a calm, even disposition and the ability to perform effectively under pressure. Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate, influence, and collaborate across departments. Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment. Physical & Work Environment Requirements Ability to lift up to 20 pounds as needed for event materials or setup support. Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts based on business needs. Ability to maintain a polished, professional appearance and thrive in a dynamic environment with frequent interruptions. 5. Why This Role Shines at The Hermitage Hotel This role offers the opportunity to lead refined, memorable events within one of Nashville’s most storied luxury hotels. As Catering Sales & Services Manager, you play a central role in shaping exceptional guest experiences while contributing directly to the hotel’s financial success and reputation. You will collaborate with seasoned hospitality professionals who value precision, warmth, and service excellence. This position is ideal for a confident, service‑driven leader who thrives in a highly collaborative, detail‑focused environment. At The Hermitage Hotel, we value our team members and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your well‑being and professional growth for Full Time Employees: Health & Wellness: Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance, with options to extend coverage to spouses, children, or domestic partners. Financial Security: Company‑provided life insurance and a 401(k) plan with a 3% annual match. Work‑Life Balance: Paid time off starting at 15 days per year after initial 90‑day probationary period, increasing with tenure up to 30 days per year. Employee Support: Access to mental and behavioral health services, telehealth consultations, and an employee assistance program. Additional Perks: Complimentary meals in the employee cafeteria, subsidized on‑site parking, and generous discounts at our retail and restaurant outlets. Professional Development: Ongoing education support, including industry training. Exclusive Rates: Special hotel rates for employees and discounted rates for friends and family. 7. Schedule Must be available for Weekends/ Holidays Full Time range up to 40(+) Hours per week 8. Compensation Starting Salary is Based Upon Experience NOTICE It is the policy of The Hermitage Hotel to employ the most qualified individuals. Promotion from within will be given priority whenever possible thus providing for growth, advancement, and increased responsibility for employees. All candidates are required to pass a pre‑employment drug screen and criminal background check prior to beginning employment. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The Hermitage Hotel is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against associates or job applicants on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other condition protected by applicable state and federal laws, except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies. #J-18808-Ljbffr