Catering Sales Manager in Ventura, California at Urbane Cafe Operations LLC

Summary of Position:

At Urbane Cafe, we believe delicious is in the details and that belief extends to every catering order we deliver. The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for growing our catering business by building new relationships, strengthening existing partnerships, and creating memorable guest experiences that keep clients coming back. This role is equal parts sales strategist, relationship builder, and brand ambassador.

While this position is remote, it is not desk-bound. Success happens in the field by meeting prospective clients, visiting existing accounts, attending networking events, and spending time in our cafes. Whether you're walking a corporate campus, introducing yourself to a local business, or delivering menus to a nearby office, you'll be the face of Urbane Cafe in your market. A reliable vehicle, valid driver's license, and willingness to travel throughout your assigned territory are essential.

The ideal candidate brings proven catering sales experience within the restaurant industry and understands the unique needs of business catering. The strongest candidates will already have an established network of business relationships within their market and know how to turn those connections into long-term catering partnerships. We aren't just looking for someone who can sell; we're looking for someone who already knows where to start.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Sales & Business Development – Generate new catering business through outbound sales initiatives, regular menu drops, community networking, tastings, and local market outreach. Respond promptly and professionally to all catering inquiries via phone, email, and online platforms. Prepare customized catering proposals, menus, and pricing aligned with client needs and event objectives. Negotiate and close contracts to achieve revenue and profitability goals.

Guest & Event Management – Serve as the primary point of contact from inquiry to event completion. Coordinate all event details including menus, guest counts, delivery logistics, timelines, and special requests. Conduct site visits, tastings, and client meetings. Ensure accurate communication of event details to culinary, service, and store management teams. Attend and oversee on-site events or deliveries as needed to ensure service excellence.

Operations & Collaboration – Partner with restaurant managers, Catering Leads, and Area Coaches to support flawless execution of catering orders and large-scale events. Maintain accurate event orders, contracts, and internal documentation. Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, service standards, and company policies. Assist in staffing coordination and scheduling for catering needs.

Revenue Management & Reporting – Meet or exceed catering sales goals through effective planning and strategic execution. Track sales activity, forecasts, and key performance metrics. Maintain accurate and timely records within catering software and/or CRM systems. Analyze sales trends to identify growth opportunities and improve revenue strategies.

Guest Experience & Retention – Deliver exceptional hospitality and customer service throughout the sales and event lifecycle. Manage client feedback, address concerns, and handle last-minute adjustments with professionalism and a solutions-oriented approach. Conduct post-event follow-ups to ensure client satisfaction and encourage repeat and referral business.

Qualifications/Skills:

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of catering sales or restaurant sales experience within the fast-casual, QSR, or restaurant industry.
• Demonstrated success growing a book of business through outside sales, networking, and relationship management.
• Proven ability to prospect, negotiate, and close new business.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple clients, events, and priorities simultaneously.
• Passion for hospitality, sales growth, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.