Conference Services Manager

Donohoe Hospitality Services•College Park, MD

1d•$72,000 - $82,000

About The Position

The Conference Services Manager is the primary liaison between the hotel and clients after a group contract is signed, guiding programs from planning through execution. The role builds client relationships, coordinates event logistics across departments, and ensures group experiences meet the hotel's Four Diamond service standard while identifying opportunities to generate incremental revenue. The position is based at The Hotel at the University of Maryland, a AAA Four Diamond independent property with 297 guest rooms, including 9 suites, and more than 45,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The hotel is managed by Donohoe Hospitality Services and describes its environment as professional and collaborative, with opportunities for team members to develop skills, take on greater responsibility, and advance their careers.

Requirements

Previous experience in event planning, catering, or hospitality services.
Mastery of Microsoft Office, including Word, email, and Excel.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong math skills.
Ability to manage budgets and understand contracts.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business demand.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of hotel systems such as Delphi, Opera, or Social Tables.
Associate's or bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary liaison between the hotel and clients after group contracts are signed.
Build client relationships and understand clients' needs, preferences, and event goals.
Deliver service that supports client satisfaction, repeat business, and positive reviews.
Develop and manage event timelines covering food and beverage, audiovisual needs, rooming lists, and related logistics.
Create Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), diagrams, and event resumes.
Manage multiple groups and overlapping timelines.
Coordinate with Sales, Accounting, Front Desk, Parking, Culinary, Banquets, AV, and Housekeeping.
Ensure departments are aligned on event expectations, changes, and special requests.
Communicate clearly and professionally with internal teams and external clients.
Resolve challenges during event planning and execution, including adapting to last-minute changes.
Provide the team with details for special setups and thoroughly check event logistics.
Ensure billing accuracy.
Identify upselling opportunities in AV, décor, food and beverage, and other services.
Balance client needs with hotel profitability and operational efficiency.
Represent the hotel brand in a polished, enthusiastic, service-first manner and maintain composure during high-pressure situations and high-level client interactions.