Catering - Event Sales Associate

Bridgeport, CT, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $20.00 - $23.00

Benefits

overtime pay

on-demand pay program

meal plan

Employee Discounts

401(k) plan with Company Match

Tuition Discount

Bereavement leave

Holiday pay

Paid sick leave

Job Description

SSA Group has been a trusted partner to cultural attractions for over 50 years, specializing in creating exceptional hospitality experiences. Our company integrates admissions, culinary services, and retail operations with innovative strategies and human connection to craft seamless guest journeys that are memorable and impactful. Our unique approach, referred to as 452 Hospitality, puts people, innovation, and operational intelligence at the forefront to build lasting relationships with our partners and their communities. SSA Group operates within diverse locations including Arizona, California, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and more, maintaining a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in all that we do.

The role of Event Sales Associate is crucial within SSA Group’s commitment to delivering superior hospitality experiences. Reporting directly to the Event Sales Coordinator and Catering Sales Manager, the Event Sales Associate serves as an essential support resource for the event sales team, helping to manage client relationships and ensuring every event is executed flawlessly. This role combines sales, customer service, and operational coordination to enhance client engagement and maximize event success. The Event Sales Associate will handle inquiries, prepare necessary event documentation such as contracts and Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), and collaborate closely with Catering Operations and Culinary teams. This role demands a professional yet warm demeanor, strong organizational skills, and an understanding of event space management and yield optimization.

In addition to supporting daily sales activities, the Event Sales Associate will maintain communication with clients and internal departments, uphold company policies, and contribute to an inclusive, supportive hospitality environment. We emphasize sustainability and community engagement in every interaction, expecting our team members to actively participate in and promote these values. This position offers a dynamic work environment with varied hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, reflecting the nature of the hospitality and event planning industry. Eligible associates can benefit from overtime pay, an On-Demand Pay Program, meal plans, employee discounts, and participation in a 401(k) plan with a company match, among other benefits. The role is designed for individuals passionate about event planning, customer service excellence, and hospitality innovation, with opportunities for growth and development within SSA Group.

Job Requirements

Strong interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to articulate to clients General Manager and HQ personnel
Understanding of the importance of team building development while fostering partnerships
Exceptional problem solving and decision making skills combined with organizational abilities
Demonstrates financial management merchandising analytical planning and leadership skills
Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast paced environment
Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions
Physical ability to stand for extended periods and move and handle boxes weighing up to 35lbs
Ability to work varied hours including nights weekends and holidays
Must be 18 or older

Job Qualifications

Strong interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to articulate to clients General Manager and HQ personnel
Understanding of team building development while fostering partnerships
Exceptional problem solving and decision making skills combined with organizational abilities
Demonstrates financial management merchandising analytical planning and leadership skills
Ability to remain flexible in a fast paced environment
Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions
Knowledge of event planning and space yield management
Experience with BEO preparation and execution
Ability to provide professional client communication and relationship management
Ability to work varied hours including nights weekends and holidays

Job Duties

Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering warm welcoming and memorable experiences for every guest and client
Assist Event Sales Coordinator with daily duties and tasks
Handle all birthday inquiries
Upsell and detail the event with the client
Prepare contracts BEOs diagrams and other internal documents
Provide thorough and timely communication with clients
Constant and thorough communication and collaboration with Catering Operations Culinary Team and other departments involved in the event
Uphold and demonstrate understanding of company policies and procedures
Manage space feasibility maximizing space usage and yield management
Remain knowledgeable of and manage in accordance with applicable local state and federal laws
Maintain a clean safe and organized work environment
Knowledge of menu and event planning
Secure deposits and ensure all event payments are made in full prior to each event
Provide professional and positive communication to guests and employees
Provide administrative support as needed for the Catering Sales Team
Responsible for post event follow up engagement and client development
Perform other duties as assigned by Catering Manager or General Manager
Promote an inclusive and supportive approach at the Unit
Support unit in sustainability and conservation efforts with business application knowledge
Support SSA Unit in driving community effort engagement activities and giving back