Conference Services Manager

HEI Hotels & Resorts•New York, NY

2d•$80,000 - $85,000

About The Position

The Conference Services Manager creates desired conference experiences and meets client needs through active communication, planning, and team leadership. The role coordinates conference and banquet operations, oversees execution of banquet event orders, manages client relationships, and works with hotel teams and outside vendors to ensure client satisfaction. The manager contributes to revenue and budget objectives, supports repeat business, and delivers high-quality event experiences.

Requirements

Prior hospitality experience, specifically in catering sales.
At least one year of experience within the hospitality industry.
Experience at a hotel of similar size and quality.
Computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Delphi.
Knowledge of sales skills, revenue management, training, and motivating peers.
Knowledge of hotel features and benefits, and competing hotels in the market.
Ability to execute appropriate action plans.
Knowledge of hotel operations, including marketing plans, security and safety programs, personnel and labor relations, business plans, repairs and maintenance, budget forecasting, quality assurance programs, hospitality law, and long-range planning.
Ability to work effectively under time constraints and deadlines.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt communication to different audiences.
Thorough knowledge of sales techniques, including closing and negotiation skills.
Creative skills for developing innovative setups, menus, and functions.
Experience providing and operating Audio/Visual equipment.

Responsibilities

Understand monthly forecasting and the annual budget process.
Improve meeting planner evaluation scores and implement methods to exceed meeting planner satisfaction.
Optimize room rental charges.
Participate in re-booking repeat business and build long-term client relationships.
Participate in industry organizations such as NACE and MPI.
Use sales, closing, and negotiation techniques.
Conduct hotel site inspections and client presentations.
Develop innovative event setups, functions, and menus; work with the Chef on pricing specialty menus.
Coordinate with the banquet department on operations and event execution, evaluating alternatives and deciding on action plans as needed.
Provide direction, coordination, and ongoing evaluation of operations.
Execute banquet event orders generated by the Convention Services Department.
Provide Audio/Visual equipment and operate Audio/Visual as a profit center.
Monitor group room blocks and pickup, and generate detailed resumes for operating departments.
Work with outside vendors to ensure client satisfaction for events and groups.
Comply with attendance rules and be available to work regularly.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.