Convention Services Manager

Royal Sonesta Minneapolis, MN•Minneapolis, MN

12d•$74,000 - $76,000

About The Position

The Convention Services Manager sets the tone for Sonesta’s Culture of Caring. We expect leaders to focus on creating amazing moments for guests and team members and dig deep to find ways to create success for their team. The Convention Services Manager is responsible for coordinating meetings, conventions and other special events that are booked through the sales department. The Convention Services Manager synchronizes the needs of the group contact planning the event and the staff of the hotel to effectively execute the event function. The ideal candidate has a passion for building and motivating teams that achieve results. Sonesta managers are guest-focused (both internal and external) and achievement-oriented leaders.

Requirements

High school degree or equivalent required. College course work in related field preferred.
1-2 years sales or marketing related experience required.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to prioritize and organize work assignments.
Extensive knowledge of hotel and hospitality industry.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of hotel sales and/or catering preferred.
Delphi and Opera PMS experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Negotiate food and beverage prices, function space, and hotel services within approved departmental booking guidelines.
Assist the client in menu planning, food and beverage coordination, table arrangements, decorations, traffic flow, room set-up, group room blocks and VIP services, etc.
Plan and attend Pre and Post convention meetings.
Manage function space and room block inventory as assigned and ensure that all BEO paperwork is completed in a timely and accurate manner.
Implement a daily, weekly, and monthly checklist for the catering department.
Build strong relationships with meeting planners and promote the hotel services and facilities. Work with sales staff to service and solicit new business.
Work closely with other hotel departments to coordinate functions and events and ensure that banquet/meeting room set up is done according to client’s needs, room blocks and special reservations needs are met, and that service during the meeting/event meets and exceeds expectations.
Complete post-conference reports of events for senior management and complete other reports as needed or requested.
Attend weekly resume meetings.
Assist the Director of Sales & Marketing/Director of Convention Services with budget and forecast and complete special projects and assignments as designated.
Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming.
Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
Maintain client files and update information daily in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures.
Review daily postings of charges to master accounts of clients and resolve any discrepancies, or process necessary adjustments.
Review final bill prior to presenting to client.
Assist in the preparation of the departmental budget and implementation of the hotel’s catering and conference strategy.
Utilize and collaborate with resources across different departments and corporate office.
Lead by example and operate with integrity and respect.
Inspire your coworkers to embrace and demonstrate Sonesta’s core values and the guest service standards.