Western Fair District:

Join our dynamic organization! We are a not-for-profit Agricultural Society that encourages opportunity, inclusivity, positivity, and great customer experiences!  We have been around for more than 150 years and are known for our signature event, the annual Western Fair. But we offer much more, including our internationally recognized Sports Centre and Raceway, London’s best Market, The Grove our agri-food hub, and home to world-class consumer and trade shows and events…. plus, much more!

Food and Beverage Business Development Manager

Reporting to the Director of Food and Beverage, the Food and Beverage Business Development Manager is responsible for revenue growth in our Food and Beverage areas through new experiences, partnerships and opportunities throughout The District.

Job Duties:

· Develop strategic sales plan to grow revenue in WFA food and beverage outlets, including catering, banquet, event and restaurant areas

· Create group sales program to drive attendance and revenue in Top of the Fair Restaurant

· Working with the Marketing team, create sales packages to promote group dining packages, banquets, meetings and other events showcasing WFA Food & Beverage experiences

· Collaborate with Culinary team to enhance quality and quantity of food and beverage service

· Analyze sales data to optimize pricing, menus and other package price points to meet clients' expectations

· Work with Director of Food and Beverage to create and identify new strategic entertainment events annually to animate WFA venues through culinary expertise and experience

· Build and maintain relationships with event planners, corporate clients and community stakeholders to recruit and maintain business through these relationships

· Market research and analyzation of trends, market demands and client expectations in the Food and Beverage Industry

· Assist in reconciling all catered billings to ensure proper payments are received

· Develop, monitor and achieve sales targets and financial goals for banquet, meeting, event and catering business objectives

· Represent WFA Food and Beverage team at industry networking events, trade shows, and community engagements as required

· Personalized follow-up with clients to ensure satisfaction and drive repeat business

· May be asked to assist with Sponsorship and Facility Rental sales from time to time

Skills & Qualifications

· 3-5 years of progressive experience in hospitality, food and beverage or event sales industry

· Food Handler and Smart Serve Certifications

· Able to respond quickly and make decisions in dynamic and changing circumstances

· Able to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing

Working Conditions:

· Ability to lift items weighing up to 50lbs.

· Ability to work on foot for extended periods of time, standing and walking

· Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, along with overtime as required

Background Checks

Please note, successful applicants will be required to complete a background check, which may include (but is not limited to) a criminal record check and a reference check.

Western Fair District Values Diversity

Western Fair District invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western Fair District is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.  Please contact us at any time during the recruitment process and let us know what accessible supports you may need.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Job Type: Full-time

Additional pay:

• Commission pay

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Vision care

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person