Catering & Events Coordinator

Catering & Events Coordinator

SSA Group at the Milwaukee County Zoo is looking for a talented Catering & Events Coordinator to join our team! If you have a passion for hospitality, event planning, and creating memorable guest experiences, we'd love to hear from you.

Why join SSA Group?

• Complimentary employee parking
• Discounted food and merchandise
• The opportunity to work in a unique and exciting environment at the Milwaukee County Zoo
• A fun, team-oriented culture dedicated to exceptional guest service

Job Title:

Catering & Events Coordinator

Location:

Milwaukee County Zoo, Onsite

Reports to:

General Manager, Assistant General Manager, (Sr). Director of Catering Operations, (Sr.) Director Catering/Event Sales, (Sr.) Manager of Catering Operations, or (Sr.) Manager Catering/Event Sales

Revenue Responsibility: $50,000+

Job Summary

The Catering & Events Coordinator is responsible for driving catering sales and ensuring the seamless execution of events. This hybrid role requires an individual with fundamental knowledge of both sales strategies and event logistics. This position requires a dynamic individual with communication, negotiation, and organizational skills, dedicated to delivering exceptional client experiences.

Qualifications

Job Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.
• Fundamental leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
• Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Demonstrates financial management, analytical, and planning 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 to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

Previous Experience

• No prior experience is required, however knowledge of catering sales, operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred. Although no prior work experience is required for this position, candidates with one (1) or more years of experience will be given stronger consideration.
• Working knowledge of Tripleseat is a plus.
• All education backgrounds eligible, must be 18 or older.

Key Responsibilities

Catering Sales Strategies

• Secure signed agreements and create BEOs for assigned incoming leads and bookings.
• Where applicable, accompany venue sales team or catering operations team, on site tours for prospective clients.
• Implement designated strategies to sell, and upsell, catering services to new and returning clients.
• Respond to client requests promptly and ensure client satisfaction.
• Serve as onsite contact for events sold by the Area Sales Manager.

Event Planning & Execution

• Implement plans for catering events, including event orders, pull sheets, execution timelines, staffing schedules, visual appeal and logistics layouts.
• Oversee the setup, execution, and breakdown of assigned events, ensuring all aspects run smoothly and efficiently.
• Ensure all equipment, supplies, and materials are available and in good working condition for events.
• Walk event spaces with Venue Sales Team before events to ensure everything is in working order and address any issues promptly.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with the Area Sales Team, Culinary Team, and other departments, including location partners, involved in events, implementing new strategies and procedures where necessary to ensure events are executed flawlessly.
• Create eye-catching and innovative F&B displays in collaboration with the Culinary Team.

Client Relationship Management

• Prepare and manage Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), diagrams, and other necessary documents.
• Maintain strong, positive relationships with internal and external clients to encourage repeat business.
• Proactively and transparently communicate with clients throughout the sales and detailing process.
• Work closely with clients to understand their needs, provide tailored solutions and address any concerns promptly.
• Conduct pre-event meetings with internal stakeholders to finalize details and post-event follow-ups to gather feedback and foster continued development.
• Conduct post-event follow-ups to engage clients and foster continued development.
• Collaborate with Area Sales team to understand event and client needs.
• Participate in client transitions for seamless execution.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure all client contracts, BEOs (Banquet Event Orders), and event details are accurately documented.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Maintain accurate records of event details and outcomes.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.
• Attendance at…