Assistant Manager, Catering

Vancouver Aquarium, one of the many properties owned by Herschend Family Entertainment, prides itself on working towards bringing families closer together and to creating memories worth repeating. Our Core Values - greatly exceeding guest expectations, serving others, creating emotional connections, constantly improving - give us purpose and guidance.

**SUMMARY**:

- Reporting to Senior Manager, Catering & Event Sales the Assistant Manager is responsible for generating catering and event business through networks, developing new clients, and maintaining existing client databases. This role is directly responsible for revenue generation through client meetings and networking and requires experience in the Vancouver marketplace._

**KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES**:

- _Assists in developing and implementing a sales plan to achieve catering & events revenue targets._
- _Identifies and pursues new business opportunities through proactive sales efforts._
- _Builds and maintains strong relationships with corporate clients, event planners and other potential customersResponds to inquiries, facilitates site visits & tastings, provides _quotes for catering services._
- _Assists the Senior Manager in generating costing and menu options by working closely with kitchen & café teams._
- _Delivers compelling sales presentations to showcase catering and events services.Assists in the setup and breakdown of event spaces, ensuring all arrangements are in line with client’s requirements._
- _Addresses and resolves issues or complaints from clients promptly during events, ensuring mínimal disruption to service._
- _Monitors service levels during events to exceed guest expectations._
- _Assists in managing resources & controlling costs to stay within event budget and deliver profitability._
- _Maintains constant communication with clients before and while on-site during events to handle last-minute requests promptly._
- _Gathers client feedback, assesses event’s success, and identifies areas of improvement for future events._
- _Prepares and submits accurate and timely sales reports._
- _Works closely with marketing team to develop promotional materials and campaigns._
- _Any other projects or tasks as assigned by Director, Business Operations_

**QUALIFICATIONS**:
**Education and Experience**:

- A degree or diploma in Sales Management, Business Administration, Hospitality, or a related field is preferred.
- 3+ years of experience in catering, banquet or event sales in hotels or other similar tourist attractions.

**Skills**:

- Strong sales and negotiation skills.
- Strong knowledge of catering and event industry trends including customer preferences, pricing, and profitability.
- Strong time management and multitasking ability.
- Ability to manage budgets and control costs effectively.
- Ability to perform under pressure.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multiple departments and cross-functional teams.
- Result orientation with a track record of exceeding sales targets.
- Creativity and problem-solving skills to tailor offerings to clients’ needs.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills

**Working Conditions**:

- Job requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
- Flexibility and availability in schedule are required during the week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Events occur both indoor and outdoor - incumbent must be prepared to work in all weather conditions.
- Job constantly involves listening and reacting to requests for information.
- May be required to carry a radio and be accessible for calls.

**Salary: $58,000 - $70,000 per year