Director of Catering Sales

Overview

Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., Denver, Colorado, United States of America

Posted Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 4:00 AM | Expires Monday, April 13, 2026 at 3:59 AM

SSA Group at Denver Zoo is looking for a talented Director of Catering Sales to join our team!

All applications should be submitted within 7-days following posting of the job; applications will be prioritized based upon time submitted and may not be reviewed beyond this time. The employer reserves the right to shorten or expand this timeframe as necessary to the job scope.

Job Title: Director, Catering Sales

Location: Onsite

Department: Catering & Operations

Reports to: General Manager/Assistant General Manager

Number of Salaried Reports: 1-5

Revenue Responsibility: $650,000+

WHO ARE WE

SSA Group works with zoos, aquariums, museums, and other cultural attractions on integrating dining, retail, admissions and more. We increase revenue opportunities for partners across the United States. With 50 years in the business, SSA has refined the basics while pioneering better ways forward. With pillars of focus like sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, SSA is transforming the cultural attraction industry.

SSA was built by families, for families, with a family’s sense of love and dedication. We don’t just rely on the best practices in our industry, we customize best practices for each partner to set the bar higher and higher, always. We do all we can to further the mission of our partners because their guests and the communities they serve deserve it.

The Director, Catering Sales is responsible for driving catering sales and revenue growth by promoting and selling catering services. This role requires expert knowledge of catering sales strategies, building strong client relationships, and ensuring the successful execution of events. This position requires a dynamic individual with communication, negotiation, and organizational skills, dedicated to delivering exceptional client experiences.

Job Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.
• Expert leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
• Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Demonstrates financial management, analytical, and planning skills.
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

Previous Experience

• Minimum 6 years catering sales, operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred.
  • A minimum of 6 years of experience is required for this position; however, candidates with 8 or more years of experience will be given stronger consideration.
• Working knowledge of Tripleseat is a plus.
• All education backgrounds eligible, must be 18 or older.

• Negotiate catering contracts and secure signed agreements to align with company policies.
• Accompany venue sales team on site tours and conduct menu tastings to showcase event capabilities.
• Develop and implement strategies to sell, and upsell, catering services to new and returning clients.
• Plan and upsell functions with clients, including space requirements, times, equipment, menus, themes, and decorations.
• Respond to client requests promptly and ensure client satisfaction.
• Develop seasonal promotions or packages to increase sales.

• Prepare and manage catering contracts, Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), diagrams, and other necessary documents.
• Maintain strong, positive relationships with internal and external clients to encourage repeat business.
• Proactively and transparently communicate with clients throughout the sales and detailing process.
• Drive strong partnership with venue sales and…