Catering Sales Manager, Michigan Central Station

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for incoming catering inquiries associated with Michigan Central Station.
• Gather event details including guest count event type timing budget and logistical requirements from client.
• Assess client needs and direct qualified opportunities to the appropriate catering partner: Forte Belanger or Two Unique Caterers.
• Ensure all client information is accurately documented and shared with the appropriate sales team for follow-up and proposals.
• Remain the point of contact for the client until contract is signed with appropriate catering division.

• Lead the sales and planning process for assigned programming and events serving as the primary liaison between Continental Catering & Events and Michigan Central event teams.
• Collaborate with Michigan Central programming leadership to integrate event themes guest chefs and culinary partnerships into the food and beverage experience.
• Prepare and present client proposals menus and event plans securing approvals from Michigan Central where required and working with Continental leadership on costs and retail.
• Manage the event planning lifecycle including pre-event logistics internal coordination and execution oversight.
• Coordinate with Michigan Centrals event operations and building teams on event logistics including load-in/load-out space requirements cleaning coordination and special operational requests.
• Oversee event set-up service execution and breakdown coordination to ensure food and beverage programs are delivered to agreed standards.
• Maintain detailed event documentation including menus pricing approvals and operational notes to ensure alignment with venue and contractual requirements.

• Work closely with the Michigan Central Station sales team to support venue-driven catering opportunities.
• Act as a catering subject matter expert during early client discussions related to food service capabilities and event logistics.
• Maintain strong working relationships with venue staff and partners to support seamless event planning.

• Attend and support site visits walk-throughs and introductory meetings with prospective clients.
• Provide catering insights during tours and consultations including menu possibilities service styles and operational considerations.
• Represent the catering brands professionally and enthusiastically to potential clients.

• Understand venue operational needs event flow and catering logistics within Michigan Central Station.
• Ensure event requirements align with operational capabilities for both catering divisions.
• Communicate key operational details to internal teams to ensure accurate proposals and event execution.

• Track leads maintain organized records and ensure smooth transitions to the sales teams at Forte Belanger and Two Unique Caterers.
• Support overall revenue growth by driving qualified leads into the catering sales pipeline.
• Assist with reporting and lead tracking as needed.

Skills Knowledge & Expertise

• 5 years of experience in catering sales hospitality sales event planning or venue sales.
• Strong understanding of event logistics and catering operations.
• Flexibility for job description and responsibilities to evolve.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to assess client needs quickly and match them with appropriate services.
• Comfortable conducting venue tours and participating in client meetings.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Experience working with luxury venues large-scale events or off-premise catering is preferred.

• Relationship building
• Sales qualification
• Event logistics knowledge
• Client consultation
• Cross-team collaboration
• Hospitality leadership

• Combination of office venue and event-site environments.
• Regular attendance at site visits client meetings and venue walkthroughs.
• Some evening or weekend availability may be required based on client schedules.