Director of Catering Sales

Sodexo Live! is a premier event hospitality company known for producing extraordinary events at some of the world's most prestigious venues. With a reputation for excellence, Sodexo Live! combines operational expertise with creative event planning to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans, visitors, guests, and team members alike. The company prides itself on creating vibrant, engaging atmospheres where every event is an opportunity to exceed client expectations and create lasting memories. At Sodexo Live!, employees are encouraged to bring their unique personalities, backgrounds, and passion for service to a workplace that values innovation, teamwork, and individual growth. Working at Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it is a chance to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to excellence in hospitality and event management.

This particular opportunity is for the role of Director of Catering Sales at the San Diego Convention Center, a landmark facility located in the heart of downtown San Diego along the scenic San Diego Bay. The Convention Center is renowned as one of the top convention centers globally, servicing a diverse array of conventions, trade shows, meetings, and community events which contribute significantly to the economic vitality of the city. The expansive 2.6 million-square-foot venue offers flexible space combined with five-star service, making it the premier choice for meeting planners. The Director of Catering Sales will play a critical leadership role in this environment, overseeing a team of Catering Sales Managers and Coordinators dedicated to creating unique dining experiences tailored to client needs.

In this leadership position, the Director of Catering Sales will be responsible for driving the catering sales strategy and execution, managing all sales activities to meet and exceed revenue goals established in the unit’s annual marketing plan. This includes fostering relationships with existing clients to maximize forecasted group and local business, as well as spearheading initiatives to develop new business opportunities. The role requires close collaboration with multiple departments including culinary, banquet, beverage, and operations teams to ensure seamless coordination and flawless event execution that aligns with client specifications and expectations.

The Director will also provide hands-on support during events to maintain superior service standards, oversee food and beverage operations, and ensure guest satisfaction. Additionally, this role contributes to broader organizational goals by participating in projects related to human resources, general business strategy, revenue generation, menu innovation, and creative event planning. This position requires a strong knowledge of food and beverage financials, operational procedures, controls, and administration, along with P&L accountability experience. The successful candidate should possess a deep understanding of food and wine to develop tailored menus and deliver exceptional event experiences.

Working at Sodexo Live! as the Director of Catering Sales at the San Diego Convention Center offers a unique career path combining business acumen with creative leadership in a high-volume, highly regarded venue. This role demands dedication, strategic vision, and a client-focused mindset to drive growth and excellence in catering services. Candidates interested in making a direct and meaningful impact on major events in a world-class facility will find this position both challenging and rewarding. The work schedule may include extended or irregular hours such as evenings, weekends, and holidays, underscoring the dynamic nature of the events industry.

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. The company values all qualified applicants and provides consideration regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic according to federal, state, and local laws. This role represents a significant career opportunity for experienced catering sales professionals seeking to lead a top-tier team and contribute to memorable event experiences in a prestigious environment.