Catering Sales Manager

The Event Sales Manager is responsible for driving revenue through hands-on sales activity, client relationship management, and execution of Purslane’s sales strategy within assigned segments or venues. This role focuses on direct outreach, proposal generation, and closing business, while ensuring a seamless handoff to operations for flawless event delivery.Key ResponsibilitiesOutbound Sales (30%)

• Develop and maintain a prospecting list of target clients and venues in assigned segments (e.g., corporate, nonprofit, social).
• Conduct proactive outreach through emails, calls, and LinkedIn to generate new leads.
• Represent Purslane at networking events, tastings, and trade shows to build awareness and relationships.
• Nurture partnerships with venues and event planners to drive repeat business and referrals.
• Track outbound activity and results in CRM (Tripleseat), ensuring pipeline transparency.

Inbound Sales (30%)

• Respond promptly and professionally to new inquiries via email, phone, or website forms.
• Qualify leads to assess event scope, fit, and potential value.
• Create and present tailored proposals and menus based on client needs.
• Conduct follow-ups to close open proposals and maintain a high conversion rate.
• Ensure seamless handoff from sales to operations once the event is confirmed.

General Sales Cycle Management (25%)

• Manage the full sales process from lead generation to signed contract.
• Negotiate terms and pricing within established parameters.
• Collaborate with operations and culinary teams to confirm logistics and ensure alignment on event expectations.
• Monitor and update CRM (Tripleseat) data to reflect sales stage, client communications, and revenue forecasts.
• Maintain a disciplined follow-up cadence to keep prospects engaged through the decision cycle.
• Conduct post-event follow-ups to gather feedback and identify new opportunities.

Collaboration, Reporting & Team Contribution (15%)

• Actively participate in weekly sales, BEO, and other internal meetings.
• Report on activity metrics, conversion rates, and revenue progress.
• Collaborate with the Director of Sales & Business Development on outbound strategy and promotional initiatives.
• Contribute to menu development and marketing efforts that drive sales.
• Uphold Purslane’s sustainability values and communicate that mission to clients.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in catering, events, or hospitality sales, with preference for off-premise catering experience.
• Strong communication, negotiation, organizational and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated, with a track record of meeting or exceeding sales goals.
• Proficiency in CRM systems (e.g. Tripleseat, Salesforce Caterease) and Google Workspace.
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid office and field-based role; frequent presence at event venues required.
• Standard business hours, with evening, weekend, and holiday work as needed for events.
• Must be able to sit, stand or walk for extended periods and lift up to 10 lbs. frequently, and 25 lbs. occasionally.
• Work may take place indoors and outdoors, in varying weather conditions.
• Compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards required.
• Travel within the greater NYC area for site visits and events.
• Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Benefits

• Enrollment in the Purslane offered medical, vision, and dental group healthcare plan, available 30 days after start of employment.
• 10 days of Paid Time Off, accrued (but also advanced), approved by manager.
• Accrued sick leave is 40 hours per year.
• Employer contribution to health insurance will be offered at 50% of premium up to $400/month.
• 20% employee discount on all Oberon Group restaurants.
• Flexible work arrangements, minimum 3 days/week in the office.

The estimated compensation range for this role is $115K-$125K, including base salary and on target incentive pay.