Catering Sales Manager

Role overview

This is a senior commercial position focused on expanding catering revenue across the UAE. The job carries full responsibility for the catering sales channel, covering strategy, business development, client relationship management, proposal creation, commercial negotiations, and revenue results. It sits within the B2B Sales function and supports growth across corporate accounts, luxury hospitality groups, government bodies, VIP and private clients, event agencies, and premium event organizers.

The role requires someone who can independently manage the complete sales cycle, from identifying prospects and winning new business to preparing tailored proposals, closing contracts, and growing accounts after events. In addition to selling, the position is expected to help shape the catering commercial direction, uncover new opportunities, build a strong portfolio of high-value clients, and strengthen the company’s reputation as a premium catering partner in the UAE.

Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of the UAE catering revenue target and remain accountable for monthly and annual sales outcomes.
• Plan and implement the catering business development approach in line with the wider B2B commercial strategy.
• Find, prioritize, and convert valuable opportunities in the corporate, luxury hospitality, government, and premium private event segments.
• Handle the entire commercial journey, including prospecting, pitching, proposal preparation, negotiation, contracting, and retaining accounts.
• Maintain a structured pipeline with reliable revenue forecasting and business reporting for the Head of Sales.
• Develop and manage a portfolio of high-value clients such as corporate brands, luxury hotel groups, event agencies, wedding planners, government entities, and VIP private customers.
• Create long-term partnerships that establish the company as a preferred premium catering provider in the UAE.
• Lead senior-level client meetings, presentations, and tastings while ensuring a luxury-level experience throughout.
• Expand existing business through upselling, stronger relationships, and consistent premium service delivery.
• Represent the company at industry gatherings, networking events, and high-profile occasions to broaden market reach and commercial relationships.
• Prepare bespoke catering proposals and event concepts tailored to individual client needs rather than relying on standard catalogue options.
• Guide clients on catering setup, menu direction, event flow, presentation quality, and overall guest experience.
• Set pricing and commercial terms for proposals while staying aligned with brand positioning and margin goals.
• Work closely with culinary and operations teams to refine catering concepts, seasonal menus, and premium service offerings.
• Act as the main commercial contact for catering operations and coordinate with culinary, operations, logistics, procurement, marketing, and finance teams to ensure smooth execution.
• Brief internal teams on client expectations, event details, and service standards.
• Support and mentor junior colleagues in the B2B catering function and help build team capability.
• Partner with Marketing on catering campaigns, seasonal activations, and client-facing materials that match premium brand standards.
• Track market movements, competitor activity, new catering segments, and premium event opportunities to support commercial planning.
• Identify new catering verticals, client groups, and expansion opportunities within the UAE, while supporting international growth ambitions where relevant.
• Share market insight, client feedback, and revenue performance updates with senior leadership.
• Contribute to annual business planning with commercial input on targets, growth initiatives, and resource needs.

Experience and qualifications

Applicants should bring at least 7 years of progressive experience in luxury hospitality sales, catering sales, premium food and beverage, or high-end event sales, with a strong record of revenue growth and business development in the UAE. Direct UAE market experience is mandatory, along with an established network across corporate, luxury hospitality, government, and premium event sectors.

Experience from 5-star hotels, luxury catering firms, luxury hospitality groups, premium event companies, or high-end F&B brands is strongly preferred. The role also calls for proven ability to win and manage senior accounts, handle complex high-value relationships, contribute to strategy, work across departments at a senior level, and manage multiple premium opportunities at once. Mentoring or team development exposure will be considered an advantage.

Required skills and capabilities

• Luxury and premium sales
• Catering and event sales
• Business development
• Consultative selling
• Proposal writing
• Executive presentations
• Negotiation and contract closing
• Client relationship management
• Revenue forecasting and pipeline management
• Cross-functional coordination
• Market analysis and strategic planning
• Stakeholder management

Eligibility and language requirements

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Marketing, or a related discipline. A valid UAE driving licence is required. English fluency is compulsory, and Arabic is considered an advantage.

Additional notes

This position requires strong personal presentation, commercial drive, and the ability to represent the company confidently at the highest client levels. Handling VIP clients, government accounts, and luxury events is essential.