Senior Convention Services Manager

SUMMARY

The Omni Ft. Lauderdale Hotel is seeking a Senior Convention Services Manager to oversee and manage all aspects of catering and convention services events. Key responsibilities include negotiating contracts, obtaining event-related information, optimizing function space, and ensuring all details are communicated accurately.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Negotiate with customers through creative and attractive menu presentations and event proposals to achieve maximum revenue/profit potential and fulfill contractual responsibilities.
• Obtain all event-related information (meeting specifications, audio visual, rooming list, food and beverage requirements) to forecast food and beverage revenue at least 60 days in advance of program arrival.
• Drive function space optimization to ensure best utilization of space for guest experience and financial performance of the hotel.
• Produce and distribute accurate and clear group resumes, banquet event orders, and diagrams to all operating departments in a timely manner.
• Yield sleeping room block and function space accurately and calculate all applicable attrition with accounting.
• Initiate/follow up on billing procedures, ensuring deposits and/or credit applications are received within acceptable time frames.
• Conduct pre-convention and post-convention meetings with customers and pertinent departments to confirm all relevant details are communicated.
• Conduct any/all planning site inspections as required.
• During convention, ensure meeting arrangements are to the meeting planner’s specifications. Manage any on-site changes efficiently.
• Available to meet with meeting planner during convention through phone, email, and in person to troubleshoot any questions that arise.
• Establish and maintain rapport with customers, prior to, during, and post-convention, exceeding their expectations and encouraging repeat business.
• Attend all necessary meetings within hotel that affect/are affected by the Catering and Convention Services Department.
• Find solutions to challenges that arise while the convention or event is on property and represent the hotel in a professional manner.
• Mentor and develop administrative staff and management staff for future growth as assigned.
• Accurately forecast all food and beverage events on a monthly and yearly basis. Assist in forecasting guestroom revenue along with the Group Housing Coordinator.
• Assist Catering & Convention Services leaders with oversight, training, and development of the Event Concierge and Administrative Assistant roles.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years’ experience as a Senior Convention Services Manager at a similar sized and type of hotel or hotel, managing large groups, events, and conventions.
• Expert in time management, front-facing customer service, and guiding customers with event setups and diagrams.
• Strong food and beverage knowledge, particularly for large scale events.
• Experience managing weddings, holiday parties, social events, food shows, professional teams, government delegations, large-scale exhibits, and specialized group functions.
• Highly responsible and reliable, with strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Windows applications, Social Tables, FDC, and Delphi.
• Certified Meeting Planner (optional).
• Team player with excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure, handling many guest and manager requests/questions within a short period of time.
• Proven strong customer service focus with a passion for creating memorable and personalized guest experiences.
• Ability to work various shifts, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.