SALES & EVENTS MANAGER

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila continues to grow its national presence, and we’re excited to welcome an experienced Sales & Events Manager to our dynamic team in Chicago! Known for offering traditional Mexican favorites and innovative interpretations, Bodega brings together tacos, tequila, and vibrant community experiences in an eclectic “puebla”-inspired atmosphere. This position requires a strong passion for sales and events, exceptional leadership skills, and a keen eye for detail, ensuring the successful execution of events and seamless coordination across all departments. This individual reports to the VP of Brand or to the Digital Brand Manager in the absence of the VP of Brand.

Position Overview:
As the Sales & Events Manager, you will play a key role in driving the success of corporate and social events, city-wide initiatives, and off-site experiences. You’ll be responsible for generating new business, managing client relationships, and ensuring flawless execution of all events. A passion for sales, hospitality, and community engagement is crucial for this role.

Key Responsibilities:

Sales & Event Planning:

- Manage the full sales cycle for corporate and social events, from lead generation to event execution.

- Maintain and build relationships with clients, driving repeat business and cultivating a loyal client base.

- Collaborate with the operations and kitchen teams to ensure seamless event delivery, including all Banquet Event Orders (BEOs).

- Use tools such as Tripleseat to manage client communications, contracts, and event logistics.

- Participate in local networking events to promote Bodega and drive new business.

- Identify opportunities to expand off-site catering and event offerings, driving revenue growth in line with company objectives.

Community Engagement & Marketing:

- Stay connected with the Chicago market and community to identify trends and opportunities for new events and programming.

- Work closely with the marketing team to create promotional assets, email campaigns, and social media content that drive engagement and brand awareness.

- Ensure all third-party listings are up-to-date with current event offerings, special promotions, and accurate information.

- Capture content at events for marketing and social media, working with the brand team to highlight key moments.

- Collaborate with local vendors, DJs, and partners to enhance event experiences and attract diverse clientele.

Operational Excellence:

- Oversee the execution of all events, ensuring high standards of service and hospitality.

- Manage preferred vendor relationships, ensuring all necessary materials, equipment, and services are arranged for successful events.

- Maintain an organized schedule of weekly outreach, site visits, and client follow-ups to drive ongoing sales.

- Provide weekly reports to management detailing confirmed events, prospective business, and key outreach activities.

- Ensure the inventory for events is properly maintained and managed, with all necessary collateral, supplies, and materials readily available.

Marketing Support:

- Collaborate with the marketing team on special event campaigns, concierge packages, and promotional strategies.

- Coordinate with local businesses, gyms, and residences for happy hour events, brand activations, and community outreach.

- Work with the graphic designer and marketing manager to ensure all event signage, printed materials, and branding are consistent and up to date.

Qualifications:

- Minimum of 5+ years of sales and event management experience, with at least 3 years in hospitality or food & beverage sectors.

- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.

- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal teams, clients, and vendors.

- Experience with Tripleseat or other event management software preferred.

- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for events and activations.

- A high degree of professionalism and integrity, with the ability to manage projects and events independently.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.