Maple & Ash - Event Sales Manager - Chicago

About Maple Hospitality Group:

Join Maple Hospitality Group, where culinary excellence meets unparalleled service. Led by renowned restaurateur Jim Lasky and two-Michelin-starred Chef Danny Grant, known for his innovative approach to fine dining, we're building a team of passionate food lovers dedicated to creating iconic destinations.

We believe success hinges on impeccable food, world-class service, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences. As we expand across Chicago, Scottsdale, Dallas, and Miami, you'll find endless opportunities for growth, travel, and continuing education.

Our culture is built on four core principles:

• Generosity: Always give more, exceed expectations.
• Excellence: Deliver exceptional work with unmatched expertise.
• Fun: Love what you do, laugh often, and enjoy the journey.
• Fail Fast: Learn from mistakes, adapt, and keep improving.

Position Overview:

Base Salary: $60,000 with earnings up to $100,000 including commission - payable weekly

The Event Sales Manager is responsible for generating and managing private dining and events business. This role will focus on building client relationships, coordinating event details, and ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for every guest with a hands-on approach. This position is a foundational step with a clear pathway to advancement within the company, offering endless opportunities for growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sales & Business Development:
  • Respond to and manage incoming private events inquiries via phone, email, and in-person in partnership with the Director of Events.
  • Conduct site tours for prospective clients, effectively showcasing the unique features and capabilities of our private dining spaces.
  • Proactively seek new events business through networking, lead generation, and client outreach. 
  • Possess strong negotiating skills
  • Prepare and present detailed proposals, contracts, and banquet event orders (BEOs) to clients.
  • Able to organize time effectively and prioritize tasks to ensure workload is balanced and urgent situations are dealt with immediately
• Client Relationship Management:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients from the initial inquiry through the life cycle of their event including but not limited to thank you notes, reviewing feedback and supporting the rebooking process.
  • Present ideas and solutions to meet client’s food, beverage, and space needs
  • Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with clients, encouraging repeat business and referrals.
  • Collaborate with clients to understand their needs and preferences, creating tailored event experiences that exceed expectations.
  • Assist in client recognition and appreciation.
• Event Coordination & Execution:
  • Liaise with culinary, operations, and service teams to ensure flawless execution.
  • Serve as onsite contact for all booked events, including those booked by Director of Events
  • Oversee setup, organization, and execution of all events
  • Manage all logistical aspects of the event, including menu selection, beverage pairings, floor plans, and a/v requirements.
  • Anticipate challenges, resolve issues quickly, and maintain composure under pressure.
• Administrative & Reporting:
  • Create menus and handle all paperwork for daily events.
  • Handle all paperwork for weekly BEO meeting.
  • Monitor reservation system, ensuring that all events are inputted and plotted appropriately. 
  • Maintain organized and up-to-date records in our event management software.
  • Regularly assist with administrative tasks as needed to support the events team including supporting the Director with their book of business.
  • Manage event supplies, including ordering, tracking, and storage organization.

What You Will Do

• Minimum 2 years experience in a sales role in the hospitality, restaurant, or events industry.
• Proficiency in event management software (Tripleseat) 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to articulate our brand and offerings effectively.
• Solid understanding of restaurant operations, both FOH and BOH
• Knowledge of the Chicago area, including major business presences
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as frequently required by the event schedule. This is an in-person role, with hours split between the corporate office and restaurant.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and organization skills
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• A proactive, can-do attitude with a strong desire to learn and grow.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Additional programs used include Adobe InDesign, SevenRooms, and Micros - experience a plus but not a requirement.