At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive revenue through business development and manage exciting events with exceptional hospitality.
- Company: Join Caravan, a B Corp certified restaurant known for its diverse and sustainable approach.
- Benefits: Earn up to £40,000, enjoy flexible hours, and develop your career in a vibrant environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and a focus on community and sustainability.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values creativity, diversity, and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in hospitality with strong sales and event management skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 40000 £ per year.
Overview
The Sales & Events Executive is a pivotal role focused on driving revenue through business development, guest relationship management, seamless execution of private dining, corporate bookings, and events whilst delivering exceptional hospitality. The Sales & Events Executive will be responsible for maximising reservations performance for large group and private dining reservations while proactively identifying new event and partnership opportunities. They will work closely with the Head of Sales to position Caravan as a leading destination for events & group dining experiences.
What You'll Do
- Business Development
- Build relationships with corporate offices, event agencies, hotels, and local businesses
- Attend networking events, trade shows, and industry gatherings to generate leads
- Work with the Head of Sales to proactively reach out to previous bookers promoting new initiatives
- Reservations & Event Management
- Oversee semi/private dining and full venue hire enquiries, ensuring a seamless journey from initial enquiry through to post event follow up
- Prepare event assets such as proposals and quotes based on the guests needs
- Attend show arounds & meetings for clients
- Coordinate with internal teams such as kitchen, management to ensure seamless execution of large group bookings and events
- Establish strong physical presence at events when required, in particular, major revenue driving events ensuring a smooth delivery and supporting teams to secure guest relationships onsite
- Build strong relationships with repeat clients and corporate accounts
- Ensure all bookings have the correct payments, either card authorisation are completed or invoiced and paid via BACS prior to the booking date
- Ensure run-sheets and pre-orders are created in a timely manner for the venues
- Manage booking systems and ensure accurate reporting on covers, bookings & revenue
- Support the Head of Sales & Events with ad hoc duties such as booking reports, system settings updates, future campaign planning & execution
- Attend key internal Caravan events
Requirements
- Essential Experience
- Minimum 2 years' experience in hospitality reservations and event management
- Proven track record of hitting revenue targets and driving sales initiatives
- Hands-on operational experience in restaurants or events (understanding service delivery from floor level)
- Experience managing corporate accounts and B2B relationships
- Proficiency in booking systems (SevenRooms or OpenTable preferred)
- Skills & Competencies
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for client proposals and presentations
- Strong relationship-building and negotiation abilities
- Highly organised with ability to manage multiple events simultaneously and meet tight deadlines
- Meticulous attention to detail in documentation, contracts, and financial processes
- Commercial awareness including budgeting, quoting, and P&L impact
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Personal Attributes
- Self-motivated and proactive approach to business development
- Professional demeanour for guest-facing meetings and show arounds
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends when events require
- Alignment with Caravan's values: DEIB, sustainability, and community focus
- Desirable
- Existing network within London/Manchester corporate offices, event agencies, or hotels
- Experience with CRM systems and sales reporting
- Knowledge of food & beverage trends and coffee culture
- Understanding of licensing and event regulations
About Caravan
Here at Caravan, we like to push the boundaries. Our well-travelled food and drinks range is all about bringing together flavours from all around the globe. We also share a love of mighty fine coffee, great drinks, good food and friendly vibes. Since 2010, we’ve been building our award-winning restaurants and roastery while also investing in initiatives that make a real difference to the world around us. We love to challenge the norm, whether it’s supporting our people, the community, or standing up for diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. At Caravan, we care deeply about both people and the planet - from using energy efficient equipment to reducing waste, we’re all about doing our bit for a better future. We’re very proud to be one of very few restaurants that can state that they are B Corp certified, having joined in 2024! We’re also big on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) at Caravan. We celebrate and respect individual differences, whether that’s identity, culture, or experience, and that extends to everyone—our team, guests, and the wider public. For us, creating a welcoming and diverse workplace is just how we roll. We live by 4 core values and behaviours, we expect all our teams to live, promote and role model at all times:
- Caravan of Love
- No boundaries
- Well-travelled
- All welcome
Sustainability
We expect our teams to support environmental stewardship targets and efficiency goals by following departmental environmental policies and monitoring own usage of vital resources such as energy, disposable goods, and food waste, to name a few.
Diversity & Inclusion
All our teams must respect individual differences with regards to identity, national and cultural background, and level of experience in all interactions while at work, including with members of the public.
What you'll be doing as a Caravan Reservations & Events Assistant:
The reservations team is centralised, so you'll be based in our HQ and roastery, Lambworks. As the first point of contact, you’ll be delivering our ‘Caravan of Love’ style of customer experience by working with the rest of the team on phone and email, to ensure bookings are maximised, events well-organised and our private dining spaces are always full. You will be open to learning in order to develop your knowledge and skills and in return we will embrace your individuality and creativity, so that you have every opportunity to develop your career with us. You’ll take ownership of your role and strive to be the best.
Sales and Events Executive employer: Support Team
At Caravan, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions diversity, sustainability, and community engagement. Our vibrant work culture fosters personal growth and creativity, offering employees the chance to develop their skills in a supportive environment while working in the heart of London. With a commitment to pushing boundaries and a focus on delivering outstanding hospitality, we provide our team with unique opportunities to thrive both professionally and personally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales and Events Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Get out there and network! Attend industry events, trade shows, and local meet-ups to connect with potential clients and partners. Building relationships is key in sales, so don’t be shy—introduce yourself and make those connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Show up prepared! When you’re meeting clients or attending events, have your proposals and quotes ready to go. This not only shows professionalism but also helps you stand out as someone who’s organised and ready to deliver.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up like a pro! After meetings or events, send a quick thank-you email and recap what you discussed. This keeps you fresh in their minds and shows that you value the relationship. Plus, it opens the door for future conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining Caravan. It’s a great way to show your enthusiasm and commitment to being part of our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Sales and Events Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Sales and Events Executive role. Highlight your experience in hospitality reservations and event management, and don’t forget to mention any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to hit revenue targets.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role requires excellent written and verbal communication, use your application to demonstrate these skills. Write clearly and concisely, and make sure your proposals and ideas come across effectively. We want to see how you can engage with clients!
Highlight Your Organisational Skills:As a Sales and Events Executive, you'll need to juggle multiple events at once. In your application, share examples of how you've successfully managed several projects or bookings simultaneously. This will show us you're up for the challenge!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Caravan and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at Support Team
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in Caravan’s values and mission. Familiarise yourself with their approach to sustainability and diversity, as these are key aspects of their culture. Being able to discuss how your personal values align with theirs will show that you’re a great fit.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in hospitality reservations and event management. Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully driven sales initiatives or managed corporate accounts, as this will demonstrate your capability to excel in the Sales and Events Executive role.
✨Practice Your Pitch
Since communication is crucial for this position, practice your verbal and written communication skills. Prepare a mock proposal or presentation that you might use in the role, showcasing your ability to create compelling content that resonates with clients. This will help you stand out during the interview.
✨Network Like a Pro
If you have connections within the industry, don’t hesitate to mention them during your interview. Discussing your existing network can illustrate your proactive approach to business development. Plus, it shows that you’re already engaged in the community, which aligns with Caravan’s values.
