Event Manager

Private Events & Catering Manager
Scratchboard Kitchen – Arlington Heights, IL
Salary + Commission
Nights & Weekends Required

Role Summary
Scratchboard Kitchen is hiring a Private Events & Catering Manager to oversee all private dining and catering business from initial inquiry through execution. This role is responsible for selling events, planning details, and leading service on site.

This is a hands-on management role that combines sales, organization, and floor leadership. The Events Manager serves as Event Captain for events they book and execute, working alongside the service team to ensure exceptional guest experiences.

Responsibilities
Sales & Booking
Respond to private event and catering inquiries
Prepare proposals, pricing, contracts, and invoices
Close private dining and catering business
Upsell food, beverage, and event enhancements
Enforce deposit and payment policies

Planning & Coordination
Create detailed BEOs including menus, timelines, and staffing
Coordinate with the kitchen and FOH management teams
Maintain the private events calendar and prep schedules
Ensure all event details are clearly communicated to staff

Execution & Floor Leadership
Serve as Event Captain for booked events
Lead event flow, timing, and guest communication during service
Work full manager shifts alongside servers during events
Support the service team without replacing server roles
Resolve issues in real time during service

Financial Oversight
Price events to meet revenue and margin targets
Track event revenue performance
Monitor labor impact for events

Schedule & Expectations
Base salary includes up to three (3) full manager shifts per week
Shifts may include event execution, floor management, or event preparation
The Events Manager will not work events alone and will always be supported by servers
Nights and weekends are required based on event demand

Compensation
Base Salary: $45,000
Covers all administrative responsibilities and up to three (3) manager shifts per week

Commission:
3% commission on all booked private event and catering revenue
5% commission on events personally booked and executed by the Events Manager

This is a non-tipped management position
Servers retain 100% of tips
The Events Manager does not participate in tip pools

Requirements
2+ years experience in restaurant events, catering, or hospitality sales
Strong organizational and communication skills
Comfortable leading service on the floor
Available nights and weekends
Professional, organized, and guest-focused

ABOUT SCRATCHBOARD KITCHEN

Who We Are
We are an upscale casual restaurant in downtown Arlington Heights serving scratch-made breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with fresh coffee, juice, and a curated bar program.

Our Vibe
We are warm, welcoming, and community-focused. Our space is cozy and stylish, perfect for friends and family to enjoy great food together.

Our Mission
We want every guest to feel at home here. From the warm welcome to the last bite, we aim to go above and beyond to create a memorable dining experience.