The Director of Events is responsible for leading the Catering, Events, and Banquets team. Additionally, this role is also responsible for selling and servicing all corporate/non-social events. The position will set up the strategy to identify and source business as well as plan, detail and execute these functions.
The position requires a schedule which matches client demand. Hours will flex based on site inspection requirements and event execution. It will be expected that the Director of Events is present to greet all clients in advance of events, check-in with them daily during on-site, and be present to review the final billing and conduct post-conference interviews. Weekends are required when site inspections, banquet or catering events are taking place on the property.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of everything that needs to be done Within this, the key responsibilities for this position are:
Evaluate and initiate opportunities for developing new sources of business by actively prospecting and soliciting, developing, and maintaining social catering accounts through networking, telephone, personal sales calls, trade shows, and on-site entertainment.
Responsible for Catering account and production goals for the hotels, supporting the total revenue goals (inclusive of rooms related revenues).
Ensures accurate forecasting each month.
Responsible for development of BEOs for each event with accurate billing post-event, with production of documents by Sales Coordinator.
Provide matrixed supervision of Sales Coordinator.
The position requires mandatory attendance at scheduled site inspections, event kick-off, and hand-off to F&B team once everything is detailed out.
Provide feedback and goals and objectives in preparation of annual sales plans and budgets.
Evaluate promotional events, trade shows, community, and industry events to make sure attendance produces the proper return on investment.
Work with tourism organization to maximize area opportunities and buying power
Directly oversees the Banquets to ensure proper staffing and steps of service for all events.
Finalize the requirements of catering events while maximizing revenue potential through up-selling and ensuring effective communication both written (Resumes, BEO, Daily Reports) and personal contact with all departments for the success of the event. Ensure accuracy of Banquet Checks and provide bill review on completion of program or event.
Find solutions to the inevitable challenges and glitches that arise while groups are on the property and keep Executive Committee promptly and fully informed of all problems or unusual matters so prompt corrective action can be taken where appropriate.
Maintain knowledge of hotel facilities, capacities, and dimensions of meeting space and basic operational needs of all operating departments.
Make timely and impromptu decisions, which balance the client’s needs with the financial, safety and staffing goals of the hotel.
Plan and/or attend and/or participate in meetings with hotel staff and clients, including but not exclusive to Morning Operations Briefing, Morning CS Briefing, Resume Meeting, Banquet Event Order Meeting, Sales Meeting, Pre-Convention Meetings, Menu Tastings, and Planning Site Visits.
Identify new markets and business opportunities in the local community to develop relationships and drive sales.
Demonstrates professional and confident communication skills with clients and staff.
Exhibits a professional demeanor through appearance and by maintaining a positive attitude toward all employees and guests.
Implements all sales action plans related to market areas as outlined in the marketing plan.
Executes and supports the operational aspects of business booked (e.g., generating a proposal, writing contract, customer correspondence).
Provide the highest quality of service to the customer at all times.
Develops relationships within the community to strengthen and expand customer base for sales opportunities.
Closely following up on all business leads within a 24-hour response timeline to clients.
Perform other duties as directed, developed, or assigned.
