Conference Sales Manager

Algonquin Resort•London, ON

11d•CA$45,000 - CA$60,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Catering Services Manager who will focus on both Social & Corporate Markets. Their role will solicit, develop, and establish new catering leads for the hotel to increase hotel utilization and ultimately maximizing revenues. Qualifies and develops new catering and group room business through outside sales calls, direct mail, and telephone solicitations. Develops new contacts, fosters and maintains existing client base to maximize catering revenue and services while ensuring superior customer satisfaction.

Requirements

Minimum of 3 years of hotel experience preferably in Hotel Front Office, Sales, Catering or Food and Beverage
Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships
Extreme attention to detail. Deliver high quality consistent service to clients
High level of creativity and sales execution strategies
Food and Beverage/General Hotel Operations Knowledge
Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills
Strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn specialized software
Maintain a positive attitude within a busy environment
Must have a drivers license and access to a vehicle
University degree and/or College diploma in Hospitality or General Management

Nice To Haves

Computer skills in Opera and CI/TY are a bonus

Responsibilities

Quote and negotiate space, dates and rates to obtain catering and designated accommodation revenue goals.
Prepares and presents hotel’s features and benefits to prospective clients.
Conducts tours and site inspections for prospective clients.
Prepare professional proposals, contracts and Banquet event orders with proper guarantees (Signatures, Deposits etc).
Receiving, handling and converting Meetings, Events and Group enquiries.
Presenting and Selling available and suitable banquet / event options to the highest possible standard.
Meet with clients as necessary to ensure every detail of their function is executed.
Increase catering business through the development of new business and 24 hours follow up on existing inquiries.
Confirm with client all information pertaining to the event and organize and distribute all information to applicable departments (Ensure the complete administration and execution of all planned events).
Effective management of bookings to assist in achieving hotel revenue targets.
Assist in development and solicitation of catering menus, capacity charts, floor plans and packages, aimed at specific market segments and encourage repeat business.
Assist with controlling labour and food costs.
Communicate effectively with hotel operational departments to ensure guest satisfaction.
Coordinate suppliers for clients as necessary.
Maintain excellent relationships with third party suppliers.
Conduct pre-convention meetings as required.
Be available to assist clients while on site.
Must be flexible to work evening and weekends or extended hours.
Stay current with all food and beverage trends.
Must have valid driver’s license and personal transportation.
Collect market and competitive intelligence and adjust strategy as required.
Direct outside sales calls as required.
Attend trade and travel shows of various market area for promoting hotels event business.
Implement our brand strategy into all areas of the sales process, including Bonvoy Rewards.
Supports Marriott’s Customer Service Standards and Delta’s Brand Standards and Hotel policies and procedures.
Prepare weekly and monthly action plans, which are reviewed by the Director of Sales to ensure achievement of overall hotel goals.
Complete reporting (Catering Forecasting, Sales Report, Action plans) and other reports as required.
Post group follow up and handling in a timely manner to encourage repeat business through excellent customer service.
Build strong relationships with customers to fully understand their needs.
Ensuring all inquiries are recorded accurately in CI/TY.
Assist the hotel to identify new avenues of business and bring in more banquet events to the hotel.
Other duties and tasks assigned by the management within the job scope.