Chicago Winery-Event Manager
Chicago Winery is a people and purpose driven organization. We believe our team is our biggest asset and the key to our success. We pride ourselves in providing an unforgettable guest experience where expertly crafted wines, outstanding food, and unprecedented hospitality come together. The Chicago Winery team is fueled by an unrelenting passion for food and wine, a commitment to quality, integrity and excellence, and a desire to constantly learn, grow and thrive.
Chicago Winery is searching for team members who are committed to the art of hospitality and want to share in our love for food, wine, and events by creating memorable experiences for our guests. We value kindness, curiosity, positivity, creativity, and an excellent work ethic. If you share our passion for people, good food, and great wine, then we want you to join our team!
Position Summary
Chicago Winery is seeking an Event Manager to coordinate and manage events and weddings. They are responsible for managing client interactions once the contract has been signed, and providing day of event management. This position requires a calm demeanor during high-paced and intense situations, attentiveness to all guests, and the ability to easily communicate with staff.
Event Management & Logistics
- Implement event execution procedures as per the Chicago Winery vision and standards
- Manage all aspects of the event planning process, including confirming details with vendors etc.
- Anticipate potential client questions, issues and conflicts and proactively troubleshoot
- Proactively engage with guests to ensure a positive experience
- Partner with Banquet Manager and Captain to ensure the event is executed to plan
- Manage all event staff, run pre-shift meetings, to ensure the FOH staff has clear communication on their job responsibilities.
- Interface with back of house staff to ensure proper delivery & coordination of food service
- Responsible for all BEOs, Floorplans, and other administrative documents for events
- Attend weekly meetings with various departments to review details of the operations.
- Liaise with external vendors leading up to and throughout the event, including coordinating deliveries and pick-up
- Assist with event tasting scheduling and management
- Monitor staff performance and guest experience during scheduled shifts
Communication & Engagement
- Act as the main point of contact for private event and wedding clients immediately following booking, and throughout the planning process and during the event.
- Manage client relationships and respond quickly and efficiently to client questions and concerns across all forms of communication ( phone, email and in-person)
- Attend quarterly tastings and assist with client questions as well as service of the event.
- Maximize revenue opportunities through up-selling event related enhancements
- Clearly communicate details of client’s requests to colleagues in the appropriate department(s) to ensure the event is executed to the client’s expectations
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree, ideally in Management, Communications, or related degree from an accredited university
- 2-4 years of experience in event management with emphasis on weddings is strongly preferred
- Flexible schedule with all nights and weekends available
- Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and outgoing and a team player
- Ability to establish productive relationships with people at all levels
- A positive and adaptable approach to problem solving
- Ability to thrive in a team environment
- Possess an eye for detail
- Must demonstrate proficient knowledge and use of computer and basic programs (e.g.,
- Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word)
- Exceptional organizational skills
- Ability to multitask in fast-paced environment, competently handling demanding deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interface with clients; must demonstrate professional phone and business etiquette
- Strong budgetary management skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of and appreciation of wine strongly preferred
Physical Requirements
- Able to independently lift up to 25lbs for an extended period of time
- Must be able to walk and/or stand for 8-10 hours per day
- Hand-eye coordination
- Reaching, bending twisting, stooping
- Pushing and Pulling
- Lifting overhead
- Must be able to climb stairs in venue that have multiple levels
Compensation/Benefits
- $70,000K - $75,000K
- Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance
- PTO
- Paid Sick Time
- 401K
- Commuter Benefits
Chicago Winery provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.