Event Sales Manager

“Come as friends, leave as family” Steeped in history and known for its best-in-class approach as well as craft innovation in whiskey making, the James B Beam Distilling Company is a celebrated and beloved part of Kentucky and the American whiskey tradition. QED Hospitality has partnered with the JBBDCo as the Food & Beverage provider to help showcase the entire portfolio of offerings being produced on campus. “The Kitchen Table” (an allusion to the Noe family’s tradition of hospitality) is a restaurant and event space that will provide an interactive experience that ignites a connection to Jim Beam’s family heritage through craft innovation and elevated hospitality, drawing spirited imbibers in for not only the first stop on the Bourbon Trail, but also the ultimate. At QED Hospitality, we believe exceptional food and beverage experiences are built on more than service alone — they are built on passion, precision, creativity, and the ability to make every guest feel something memorable . As the Food & Beverage partner for James B. Beam Distilling Co., we operate with a deep respect for Kentucky heritage, genuine hospitality, and the unique character of the places we serve. Our concepts are not one-size-fits-all. They are thoughtfully developed, regionally inspired, and rooted in the story of the destination. Who We're Looking For We are seeking a driven, polished, and detail-oriented Sales Manager to help grow private dining, catering, and special events business. This role is ideal for a hardworking hospitality professional who thrives on building relationships, driving revenue, and bringing events to life through strong salesmanship, strategic pricing, and seamless execution. The right candidate loves the excitement of bringing in new business, creating momentum, and turning opportunities into unforgettable guest experiences. This position requires initiative, organization, confidence, and a genuine passion for hospitality and creating moments that matter. As the Sales Manager, you will lead event business on property through proactive outreach, relationship development, thoughtful pricing strategies, and close collaboration with our culinary and operations teams. You will serve as the primary connection between clients and the property, ensuring every event is not only successfully sold, but flawlessly executed from start to finish. This is more than a sales role. It is an opportunity to help create lasting memories, grow business, and be part of a team that takes pride in bringing people together. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:  Prospecting, developing, and securing new private dining, catering, and special events business Building strong relationships with corporate clients, social hosts, planners, and community partners Responding to inquiries with professionalism, urgency, and a hospitality-first mindset Conducting site visits and property tours that effectively showcase The Kitchen Table and the JBBDCo experience Preparing proposals, pricing, and event packages that align with both client needs and revenue goals Serving as the main point of contact between clients and internal teams including culinary, service, and operations Creating Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and ensuring all event details are communicated accurately and completely Collaborating on floorplans, rental orders, timelines, and setup requirements based on each event’s unique needs Leading weekly BEO meetings and ensuring action items are completed on time Supporting event setup, execution, and breakdown to ensure a smooth and polished guest experience Supervise staff during events and help maintain service standards Confirming billing details and finalizing payments either before or after events Maintain accurate records of business booked, forecasted revenue, and client follow-up REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Must be at least 21 years of age Minimum 2 years of experience Sales/Management Prior experience in private events, high-volume restaurants, and/or fine dining preferred Proven success in selling, negotiating, prospecting, and presenting Strong customer service skills with exceptional attention to detail Ability to manage financials for both booked and forecasted business Solid knowledge of food and beverage service, menu presentation, and hospitality etiquette Strong organizational and coordination skills, including the ability to manage timelines, priorities, and event details simultaneously Proficient computer and admin skills, including working knowledge of business systems and event documentation Ability to read and execute BEOs with accuracy and care Professional appearance and grooming standards Ability to work 50–55 hours per week Flexibility to work early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays A calm, solutions-oriented approach when working under pressure PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree preferred Banquet/Event Management experience  Experience in luxury sales, or convention services a strong plus Familiarity with Tripleseat is preferred Experience with google drive and documents Familiarity with Toast Physical, Mental, and Environmental Demands This role requires the ability to move throughout the restaurant, event spaces, and property as needed. The Sales Manager must be able to stand and walk for extended periods, up to 12 hours, and lift up to 50 pounds when necessary. The position also requires manual dexterity and coordination to operate restaurant and office equipment. Because events are dynamic and fast-paced, the ideal candidate must be able to remain composed in high-pressure situations, respond to visual and verbal cues quickly, and adapt as needs change throughout service and event execution. About The Kitchen Table at JBBDCo Come as friends, leave as family. Steeped in history and known for its commitment to craft innovation and world-class whiskey making, James B. Beam Distilling Co. is one of Kentucky’s most iconic destinations and a beloved part of the American whiskey tradition. QED Hospitality is proud to partner with JBBDCo as the Food & Beverage provider, helping to showcase the full range of hospitality experiences available on campus. The Kitchen Table was inspired by the Noe family tradition of hospitality and is designed to be a welcoming restaurant and event space that reflects the spirit of Kentucky, the legacy of Jim Beam, and the power of genuine connection. It is an immersive destination where guests can gather, celebrate, and experience elevated hospitality in a setting unlike any other on the Bourbon Trail.