Conference Services Manager

The Conference Service Manager provides quality, value-added, professional service that exceeds guests' expectations. The primary function of this role is to secure and develop corporate and social events, Non-Profits, and wedding segment, with responsibility for maintaining existing clients and cultivating potential new corporate and social events. This position coordinates all sales and service activities generated through direct and indirect sales solicitation in corporate, wedding, and social markets for events.

Responsibilities

Book corporate, wedding, and social events at prevailing menu pricing while ensuring client requirements are fulfilled; Develop and maintain a sales-oriented office organization that interrelates with hotel sales and marketing; Maximize departmental profitability through proper menu pricing, up-selling, accurate billing, efficient delivery and following credit policies; Monitor blocked space, ensure groups meet contractual obligations, and initiate release of blocked space on cut-off date; Provide accurate and timely completion of Banquet Event Orders (BEO) and Resumes, collecting customer deposits and signatures; Present BEOs and communicate group details/changes to hotel departments at BEO meetings; Service personally booked and assigned groups while in-house; Conduct pre-conference and post-conference meetings with client and hotel staff; Ensure proper care and maintenance of physical space; Work with Banquet Manager on service levels and banquet team scheduling while controlling payroll expenses; Work with Executive Chef on competitive, unique menus with proper food cost; Work with Beverage Manager on banquet bar packages and wine lists with proper beverage costs; Prepare budgeting and forecasting for food and beverage, room rental, and audio-visual revenues; Meet expected revenues by booking corporate groups with 0 to 9 sleeping rooms per night utilizing function space; Process reservation requests, changes, and cancellations received by phone or email; Oversee accuracy of room blocks and reservations, input group rooming lists, and set up billing accounts according to Accounting policies

Requirements

Associate or bachelor's degree, preferably specializing in Hospitality; Two (2) years of Sales or equivalent experience; At least two (2) or more years of experience in wedding, social catering sales and conference services in a luxury environment working with high profile clients, top level executives or executive meeting planners (another related/equivalent field may be considered); Ability to analyze client needs and negotiate pricing; Strong organizational and analytical skills; Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced environment; Ability to work under pressure; Demonstrated ability to work with maximum efficiency, accuracy, and attention to detail; Experience in all Microsoft Office and industry relevant Sales systems; Ability to work effectively in Microsoft Excel to create spreadsheets regularly; Demonstrated ability to work cohesively with a team; Ability to exercise sound logic and judgment; Self-directed and motivated with exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills; Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing

Nice to have

CI/TY experience preferred; CMP Certification preferred; A second language is desirable