Director of Catering and Conference Services

SUMMARY

This position is responsible for managing the solicitation and growth of Weddings and Social Catering events at Lanier Islands. In addition, supervise service & catering managers as they organize and coordinate the execution of conferences and social events, providing guidance as needed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Cookout the booking of food/beverage events by managing outside solicitation and incoming inquiries
• Identify new wedding markets and prospecting resources, in conjunction with the wedding sales team.
• Coordinate market development activities.
• Maintain daily communication with the Director of Sales in regard to potential new business, lost business, customer and operational issues, discounted events, specialized room sets, etc.
• Use creative planning in the design and structure of weddings and catered events.
• Oversee preparation of weekly activity and wedding pacing reports.
• Supervise the Catering Sales Department in achieving budgeted revenue goals.
• Aid in control of marketing budget and entertainment expenses related to weddings and social catering food and beverage sales.
• Maintain awareness of local and regional key competitors and price point trends.
• Supervise and develop contracts, proposals, and customized menus to meet client needs, as well as financial goals.
• Catering events with clients to include handling inquiries related to food and beverage.
• Catering department and Operations.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and legal regulations.
• Supervise the Wedding & Social Catering Sales Managers, Weddings Conference Services Managers and the Wedding Administrative Assistant in a manner consistent with Human Resource Policies and Procedures.
• Document all department employee-relations issues and provide corrective action as necessary. Submit documentation to Human Resources in a timely manner.
• Perform other duties, projects and reports as assigned by the Director of Sales and deemed necessary for the growth of the business.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong management skills and the proven ability to motivate, monitor and develop sales leaders
• Excellent sales skills including the ability to up-sell, negotiate with and guide clients
• Strong organization, multitasking and time management skills a must
• Must be able to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines
• Diverse understanding of food and service functions and logistics within a banquet facility
• Strong computer skills to include Word, Excel, Outlook, Amadeus/Delphi Sales & Catering software
• Excellent communication skills

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of 5 years catering sales experience, preferably with high volume property
• Minimum of 5 years in event planning or related roles
• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience
• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in business or related field preferred
• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation (requested)