Catering Sales Manager

About the Role

The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for prospecting, selling, and negotiating catered events at the hotel. This position conducts tours of the hotel, schedules menu tastings and meetings with clients, and serves as the point of contact between the client and the hotel throughout preplanning and execution phases. The goal is to provide a seamless planning process and produce events that exceed client expectations.

This role ensures the successful outcome of programs from pre-arrival through post-departure by collaborating effectively and in a timely manner with operational teams on all execution details. Extensive knowledge of event planning, management, and food & beverage is required.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute the terms of the contract for groups/conventions/programs as outlined by the Sales Manager and per JW Marriott standards.
• Maximize food, beverage, and auxiliary revenues by selling menus, themes, and experiences/activities.
• Communicate all details of assigned groups/conventions/weddings/programs to all departments professionally, thoroughly, and timely using Convention and Social Group Resumes, Banquet Event Orders, and internal correspondence.
• Establish close working relationships with clients and JW Marriott Nashville employees.
• Efficiently reserve and utilize function space to maximize revenues while minimizing space consumption.
• Facilitate pre-conference meetings with clients and key hotel staff.
• Work closely with the client and hotel departments throughout the duration of assigned groups/conventions/programs by being available to assist the client and provide information to hotel departments at appropriate times.
• Maintain a high level of service by continually providing accurate and timely information and feedback to all supporting departments.
• Accurately forecast Banquet revenue, covers, and average checks based on group assignments.
• Conduct pre-planning site meetings and assist in the sales process where required.
• Maintain the integrity of Sales & Catering at all times.
• Perform additional duties and projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English.
• Professional demeanor appropriate for a luxury environment.
• 3-5 years of convention/event servicing and catering experience.
• Strong culinary and beverage knowledge and interest.
• Knowledge and understanding of hotel guest room inventory.
• Proven ability to plan and organize events effectively, with an acute sense of detail.
• Assertive, professional, and positive approach with a proven ability to develop and lead in a team environment.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Expert working knowledge of Sales & Catering, CI/TY, and Social Tables.
• Ability to work independently and maintain a positive attitude within a busy environment.
• Proven leadership and staff development skills with good decision-making ability.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Must be organized, personable, and enthusiastic.

Qualifications

Degree in Hotel/Hospitality Administration from a recognized University/College/Polytechnic Institute preferred.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to stand, walk, and sit.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, and crouch.
• Must use hands to reach, grasp, handle, pull, and push.
• Must have good near and far vision.
• Must be able to hear, talk, and smell.