Mgr Catering Sales

IHG•Chicago, IL

6h•$31 - $36•Onsite

About The Position

Establishes client base of organizations, associations and commercial businesses through direct outside sales efforts for the purpose of securing business for the hotel to ensure that predetermined sales expectations are met or exceeded. Negotiates food and beverage prices, function space, room rates and hotel services within approved departmental booking guidelines. Confirms in writing to the client and all affected hotel departments all group requirements via catering contract. Conducts tours of the hotel and banquet facilities; entertains qualified potential clients in accordance with the company and property policies. Monitors local competitors and compare their operation with his/her operation. Solicits business and follow up on referrals and potential sales leads. Keeps aware of trends, systems, practices and equipment in food and beverage through trade literature, hotel show and site visits. Responds to all telephone and "walk-in" inquiries in the event of the absence of other team members. Maintains an active trace/follow up system on all personal sales calls. Communicates with Conference Services and Banquets team to guide them through the function execution of the client events. Coordinates sales efforts with Sales Department and Catering Department to ensure proper utilization of function space to yield maximum revenues. Finalizes all bookings maximizing all revenue potential by "upselling" in all revenue producing areas; Food, Beverage, Room Rental and Miscellaneous Income. At IHG we are committed to providing our employees with a safe, secure and healthy workplace. It is your responsibility to comply with all workplace health and safety requirements, including any department specific training regarding equipment and procedures. Perform other duties, tasks and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management or related field.
1-3 years previous Catering Sales experience in a 4-star hotel.
Must speak fluent English.
Follow verbal and written instructions, ability to communicate with supervisors and co-workers.
Ability to work over 8 hours when business demands are high, flexible hours
Strong interpersonal and problem solving abilities
Proficient use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel PowerPoint) and other computer programs.
Ability to perform job functions with attention to detail, speed and accuracy
Ability to prioritize and organize delegated work and follow through
Ability to be a clear thinker remains calm and resolves problems using sound judgment.
Ability to work under pressure, meet guest / co-workers needs and be courteous at all times
Ability to comprehend instructions
Ability to work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team

Nice To Haves

Delphi and Opera experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Establishes client base of organizations, associations and commercial businesses through direct outside sales efforts for the purpose of securing business for the hotel to ensure that predetermined sales expectations are met or exceeded.
Negotiates food and beverage prices, function space, room rates and hotel services within approved departmental booking guidelines.
Confirms in writing to the client and all affected hotel departments all group requirements via catering contract.
Conducts tours of the hotel and banquet facilities; entertains qualified potential clients in accordance with the company and property policies.
Monitors local competitors and compare their operation with his/her operation.
Solicits business and follow up on referrals and potential sales leads.
Keeps aware of trends, systems, practices and equipment in food and beverage through trade literature, hotel show and site visits.
Responds to all telephone and "walk-in" inquiries in the event of the absence of other team members.
Maintains an active trace/follow up system on all personal sales calls.
Communicates with Conference Services and Banquets team to guide them through the function execution of the client events.
Coordinates sales efforts with Sales Department and Catering Department to ensure proper utilization of function space to yield maximum revenues.
Finalizes all bookings maximizing all revenue potential by "upselling" in all revenue producing areas; Food, Beverage, Room Rental and Miscellaneous Income.
Perform other duties, tasks and special projects as assigned.