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Catering Sales Manager - The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn

Company Description

Inspired by the insatiable wanderlust and rebellious spirit of Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, the historic downtown mansion once owned by the businessman and scion has been reinterpreted for the modern era as a lively and stylish social destination. From a secret bar tucked into a corner of the sumptuous Doris Duke-inspired parlor to the specially-commissioned series of mysterious and moody old world still lifes sprinkled throughout the foyer and lounge, the scene at The Vanderbilt is crackling with coastal curiosities and alluring eccentricities waiting to be discovered.

Job Description

Join our team as Catering Sales Manager, White Barn Inn + The Vanderbilt and become one of the
authors of our story. As part of the Auberge family, you report directly to the Area Director of Sales and be
responsible for identifying and sourcing all social catering and event function business in accordance with
the collection’s strategic plan to maximize revenue during peak and nonpeak periods. You’ll generate
revenue by generating leads and converting them to sales with a heavy concentration in the wedding,
corporate, local and social markets.  This role will work with the Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn executive
teams to ensure that the sales strategy is in line with properties business needs. In addition to Catering
Responsibilities your role will include full event management at White Barn Inn.

Core Responsibilities
● Produces and manages catering sales based on leads via incoming phone calls, email inquiries,
or internal referrals with the purpose of converting the lead to a sale.
● Align with the Director of Sales on the booking guidelines for each property.
● Identify, qualify and solicit new catering business to achieve revenue goals. Produce sales based
on previous clients renewing annual events.
● Understands all details pertaining to the wedding, corporate, local, social market and small group
market.
● Establishes strong relationships with area hotels and managers.
● Be available to work on property each day, dependent on events. Pre-approved travel and work
flexible days and hours. Available to conduct pre-event site inspections for both properties with
the support of an Event Manager at Vanderbilt.
● Close the best opportunities for the venue based on market conditions.
● Develop and manage catering sales revenue and operating budgets, and provide forecasting
reports. Develop menus as needed.
● Assist with selling and implementing catering promotions in collaboration with the Marketing
Team.
● Maximize revenue by conducting meetings; work collaboratively to create and develop new food
and beverage packages.
● Total Event Management- Collaborate with clients and internal teams to plan and coordinate all
aspects of catering & group events, including menu selection, logistics, staffing, and execution at
White Barn Inn. Managing BEO, Resume and attending Leader’s Meetings at White Barn Inn.
● Attending Leaders Meeting at Vanderbilt weekly. Attending (remotely or in person) BEO and
Resume Meeting at Vanderbilt.
● Work directly with clients, wedding planners, and meeting planners gathering necessary
information for menu planning, floor plan, room setup, timelines, rental orders, decor, cost and
billing details and any other requirements pertinent to their event in a timely manner and assist
with those items as necessary.
● Support the collection revenue goals by generating catering/banquet (inclusive of rooms related
revenues) business at White Barn Inn and The Vanderbilt.
● Organize and schedule direct sales efforts via phone, email, and in-person. Average of five
prospecting efforts per day are expected. (25 per week)
● Evaluate and initiate opportunities for developing new sources of business.
● Plan and execute a 12-month strategic business plan.
● Support and participate in calls with the Area Director of Sales and Revenue Management, as
well as monthly conference calls with Senior Regional Director of Sales and property-specific
calls, as needed.
● Accurately maintain and build Salesforce database of clients. Responsible for the overall
accuracy of the regional database.

● Maintain professional appearance and demeanor and to conduct personal behavior in a mature
and professional business manner while representing the company.
● Keep department heads informed of any issues so as to ensure prompt correction and ensure
guest satisfaction.
● Provide feedback, goals and objectives in preparation of annual sales plans and budgets.
● Maintain customer, trade, industry and staff relations.
● Target key accounts to host Discovery Visits to increase ROI.
● Work with tourism organizations to maximize regional opportunities and buying power.
● Conduct post-event evaluations and gather client feedback to assess satisfaction levels, identify
areas for improvement, and enhance future event planning and execution for both properties.

Qualifications

Required
● Four-year college degree or equivalent education/experience preferred.
● Minimum three years of sales experience in a related position in a luxury hotel sales environment.
● Demonstrated record of driving sales revenues in the hotel environment.

Desirable
● Prior experience selling events at a hotel or restaurant.
● Prior experience in international hotels/resorts.
● Prior experience working with professional organizations that support leisure / transient areas.

Personal Skills:
● Ability to negotiate, convince, sell and influence social business decision-makers and influencers.
● Ability to research and identify top prospects for growth of an existing account and develop new
accounts.
● Ability to be self-motivated and achieve goals with minimal direct supervision.
● Knowledge of sales procedures associated with the hotel industry.
● Excellent written skills, spoken and presentation skills.
● Strong computer skills (Excel, Google Docs/Sheets, PowerPoint, Hangout, LinkedIn, Salesforce).
● Strong ability to listen effectively and problem-solve with clients and team members.
● Ability to work effectively both on-site and with the area sales team.
● Ability to present clear, concise and meaningful information to owners, guests, executives,
managers and team members.
● Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one, small group situations to customers,
clients and other employees of the organization.
● Ability to sell ideas persuasively and energetically.
● Ability to maintain a high level of organization.
● Ability to embody the company’s mission, vision & culture.
● Ability to perform job functions with attention to detail, speed, and accuracy, prioritize, and
organize.
● Ability to remain calm when resolving problems while exercising excellent judgment.

Additional Information

Auberge Resorts Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences, and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine and spas, and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With hotels and resorts across three continents, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. Please visit aubergeresorts.com to learn more about our Collection. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Linkedin, Facebook and Pinterest: @AubergeResorts and #AlwaysAuberge.

Vanderbilt Hotel LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. Vanderbilt Hotel LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all team members and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Vanderbilt Hotel LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Auberge Resorts Glassdoor Company Review
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CEO of Auberge Resorts
Auberge Resorts CEO photo
Mark Harmon
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Average salary estimate

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$60000K
$80000K

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What You Should Know About Catering Sales Manager - The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts

Are you a talented sales professional with a passion for catering and event planning? Join The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn as our Catering Sales Manager and become a key player in our vibrant hospitality team! Nestled in the historic downtown area of Newport, RI, The Vanderbilt offers a unique blend of modern luxury and coastal charm, making it a prime destination for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. In this exciting role, you will report directly to the Area Director of Sales and be responsible for producing and managing catering sales by converting incoming leads into successful events. You’ll work closely with both properties’ executive teams to ensure our sales strategies align with business needs while maximizing revenue throughout the year. You’ll dive into managing full event details at the stunning White Barn Inn, collaborating with clients and vendors to create unforgettable experiences. We’re looking for someone with a strong sales background in the luxury hotel industry, preferably with prior experience in event sales. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are skilled in building relationships while juggling multiple priorities, we want to hear from you. Fluency in Salesforce and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite will be advantageous as you navigate through customer information and sales data. Ready for a fulfilling role where you can showcase your skills and creativity? Join us and help bring dreams to life at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Catering Sales Manager - The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn Role at Auberge Resorts
What are the responsibilities of a Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn?

As the Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn, your main responsibility is to identify and secure social catering and event business. This includes managing incoming leads, aligning with the Director of Sales on booking guidelines, and fostering relationships with area hotels. You will handle full event management at White Barn Inn, collaborating with clients to curate fabulous catering experiences, while also developing and maintaining a strategic sales plan to meet revenue goals.

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What qualifications are required for the Catering Sales Manager position at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn?

To qualify for the Catering Sales Manager role at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn, you should ideally possess a four-year college degree or equivalent experience, along with at least three years of sales experience in a luxury hotel environment. Proven success in driving sales revenue and a familiarity with catering services are crucial, while strong communication skills and a self-motivated attitude will set you apart.

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What does the work environment look like for a Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn?

At The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn, you will experience a lively and stylish atmosphere, where creativity and professionalism intersect. Daily engagement with the culinary team and event staff will be common, and the role offers flexibility with potential travel and on-property days. The team thrives on collaboration, and every day brings new opportunities to engage with clients and plan exceptional events.

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How can one advance their career as a Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn?

Advancing your career as a Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn involves consistently exceeding sales targets, fostering strong relationships with clients, and demonstrating leadership within the sales team. Participating in ongoing training, networking with industry professionals, and contributing to property-wide initiatives will enhance your visibility and open up new career opportunities within the Auberge Resorts Collection.

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What are the main challenges faced by a Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn?

One of the main challenges as a Catering Sales Manager at The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn is staying competitive in a vibrant market while managing multiple events and client expectations. You’ll need to adeptly navigate last-minute changes, fluctuating revenue goals, and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction, all while creatively showcasing The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn as premier event destinations.

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Common Interview Questions for Catering Sales Manager - The Vanderbilt and White Barn Inn
Can you describe your experience with catering sales in the hospitality industry?

In your response, be sure to highlight relevant roles where you've successfully managed catering sales, detailing both the strategies used and the results achieved. Mention specific examples of events or clients you worked with and any unique challenges you overcame.

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How do you prioritize multiple tasks when managing several events simultaneously?

Demonstrate your organizational skills by explaining your approach to task prioritization. Discuss tools you use for task management, such as scheduling software or checklists, and provide examples of how you've effectively managed competing deadlines in the past.

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What strategies do you use to generate new leads for catering business?

Outline your lead generation tactics, which could include networking, attending events, or leveraging social media and marketing collaborations. Give specific examples of lead successes and how you converted them into bookings for previous clients.

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How do you handle client feedback or complaints about an event?

Share your approach to addressing feedback, emphasizing your listening skills and commitment to ensuring client satisfaction. Provide a specific situation in which you turned a negative experience into a positive outcome through effective communication.

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Describe how you collaborate with a team to execute a successful event.

Discuss your teamwork experience, focusing on how you interact with kitchen staff, service teams, and event planners to create seamless events. Use examples to illustrate how clear communication and collaboration resulted in successful outcomes.

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What role does creativity play in your sales approach as a Catering Sales Manager?

Explain how creativity influences your sales strategies, especially in tailoring events to meet specific client needs. Mention some unique ideas you’ve implemented in past events that enhanced the client experience.

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How do you conduct market research to stay ahead of industry trends?

Share the tactics you use for market research such as following industry publications, attending trade shows, and networking with peers. This will show your proactive approach to leveraging trends for innovative catering solutions.

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What methods do you use to measure the success of an event?

Explain how you gather and analyze feedback from clients and attendees, as well as any metrics you track to measure success, such as revenue generated, client satisfaction ratings, and repeat bookings.

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How proficient are you with sales and event management software?

Detail your experience with relevant software like Salesforce, catering management tools, and how these technologies have improved your efficiency and accuracy in managing leads and executing events.

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What motivates you to pursue a career in catering sales?

Share your passion for hospitality and event planning. Discuss what aspects of catering sales inspire you, whether it be about the joy of creating memorable experiences or your love for working with diverse clients.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 24, 2025

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