Director of Event Planning

Marriott•Houston, TX

3d•$87,000 - $113,000

About The Position

The Director of Event Planning manages the event planning functions and staff daily, including Senior Event Managers, Event Managers, Associate Event Managers, and Administrative Assistants. The role oversees administrative processes in the pre-event and post-event phases and transitions between event phases, ensuring a seamless handoff between sales and operations and consistently high service. The Director helps maximize revenue through upselling and accurate forecasting of catering and group rooms, and is responsible for guest and employee satisfaction and the department’s financial performance.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and 4 years of experience in event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or a related professional area; alternatively, a 2-year degree from an accredited university in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related major and 2 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

Assign events turned over to the Event Planning team and oversee associated function space and group room blocks.
Communicate and execute departmental and property emergency procedures and ensure staff are trained in safety procedures.
Lead execution of activities supporting the Event Management strategy.
Review scheduled events with direct reports and troubleshoot potential challenges or conflicts.
Lead discussions about event complexity to proactively avoid service challenges and failures.
Keep the property informed about groups that will affect property operations.
Manage customer budgets to maximize revenue and meet customer needs.
Maintain inventories to maximize customer satisfaction and revenue opportunities.
Work with highly complex or high-profile groups when the financial impact will be significant.
Lead catering menu development, uphold standards and procedures for the Event Planning team, and lead Event Management meetings.
Review guest feedback and satisfaction data, share improvement plans with property leadership, and ensure corrective action is taken.
Model excellent guest hospitality, interact with guests for feedback, handle guest problems and complaints, improve service performance, and empower employees to provide excellent customer service.
Develop working relationships with outside vendors and establish prices and service agreements to improve event experiences and create additional revenue opportunities.
Consult with customers to determine objectives and requirements for meetings, conferences, conventions, and other events.
Establish customer service guidelines and ensure employees receive ongoing training on guest expectations.
Observe employee service behaviors and provide feedback to individuals or managers.
Review staffing levels to ensure guest service and planning needs are met.