Catering Sales Manager

General Summary of Duties:

The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for prospecting, selling and negotiating catered events at the hotel. This position will conduct tours of the hotel, schedule menu tastings/ meetings with clients and be the point of contact between the client and the hotel throughout the preplanning and execution phases. The Catering Sales Manager’s goal is to provide a seamless planning process and produce events that exceed the expectations of clients. This position is responsible for the successful outcome of programs from pre-arrival through to post-departure by collaborating effectively and in a timely manner with the operational teams on all execution details. This person should have extensive knowledge of event planning and management as well as food & beverage.

Examples of Duties (includes but is not limited to the following):

• Manage and execute the terms of the contract for the group/convention/program 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 in a professional, thorough and timely manner by using Convention and Social Group Resumes, Banquet Event Orders and internal correspondence effectively
• 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 the 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

Position 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 required
• Strong culinary and beverage knowledge and interest
• Knowledge and understanding of the 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

Education:

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

Typical Physical / Mental Demands:

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