Catering Sales Coordinator
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Respond to client inquiries and qualify event needs
- Prepare proposals, quotes, and event menus with pricing
- Create and manage contracts, deposits, and required documents
- Maintain accurate client and event records in a sales system
- Coordinate timelines, room setups, staffing needs, and vendor requirements
- Communicate event details to culinary, service, and operations teams
- Track leads, follow-ups, and booking status to support sales goals
- Support site tours and client meetings with the sales team
- Confirm final guest counts, dietary needs, and last-minute changes
- Assist with post-event feedback and repeat booking outreach
Top Skills for Success
Customer Service
Written Communication
Verbal Communication
Organization
Time Management
Attention to Detail
Sales Support
Proposal Writing
Contract Administration
Event Planning
Client Relationship Management
Pricing Fundamentals
Food Service Knowledge
Menu Familiarity
Basic Financial Literacy
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Catering Sales Manager
Event Sales Manager
Event Planner
Catering Manager
Banquet Manager
Conference Services Manager
Transition Opportunities
Hotel Sales Coordinator
Account Manager
Customer Success Specialist
Office Manager
Operations Coordinator
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
NegotiationForecastingUpsellingProcess ImprovementConflict ResolutionVendor CoordinationBudget ManagementPresentation Skills
Development SuggestionsAsk to own a small set of accounts end to end, practice building clear proposals with pricing options, and request coaching on handling objections. Build a simple tracking system for leads and follow-ups, and partner with operations to learn staffing, timing, and service standards that reduce event-day issues.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 38,000 to 50,000
Mid LevelUSD 50,000 to 65,000
Senior LevelUSD 65,000 to 85,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand tied to event volume in hospitality, venues, and corporate catering, with seasonal hiring spikes in many markets.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Marriott InternationalHiltonHyattIHG Hotels and ResortsFour Seasons Hotels and ResortsCompass GroupSodexoAramarkDelaware NorthLegends
Industry Sectors
Hotels and ResortsEvent VenuesCorporate CateringUniversities and Campus DiningHealthcare Food ServicesAirports and Travel HospitalityStadiums and ArenasConvention CentersRestaurants with Private Dining
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a portfolio of two to three sample proposals with clear pricing and timelines2
Learn the sales system used by your employer and keep records consistently updated3
Shadow event setup and service for several events to understand execution details4
Practice a repeatable follow-up routine for leads and tentative bookings5
Develop a checklist for final confirmations including guest count and dietary needs6
Ask for opportunities to lead client calls and present options confidently7
Track results weekly including inquiries, proposals sent, and bookings confirmed