Catering & Conferences Services Manager

The Catering and Conference Services Manager is responsible for securing, negotiating, and closing local catering, conference, and social event business while ensuring a seamless and timely handover to operations for exceptional service delivery. This role focuses on achieving and exceeding catering revenue targets through strategic selling, up-selling, and revenue optimization of every business opportunity.

The position implements brand sales and service strategies throughout the customer journey, ensuring compliance with brand standards and initiatives. Additionally, the Catering and Conference Services Manager builds strong client relationships and drives customer loyalty by consistently delivering outstanding service, creating memorable event experiences, and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.

CANDIDATE PROFILE Education and Experience • High school diploma or GED; 2 years experience in the sales and marketing, guest services, front desk, or related professional. OR • 2-year degree from an accredited university in Business Administration, Marketing, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or related major; no work experience required.

CORE WORK ACTIVITIES

Managing Sales Activities

Leads and manages sales efforts for the hotel’s catering, conference, and social event business, including local corporate and social catering opportunities. Collaborates with off-property sales channels, including Sales Offices, Area Sales teams, and other distribution partners, to ensure sales activities are aligned, complementary, and maximize business opportunities. Responds promptly to incoming catering inquiries and converts qualified leads into confirmed business. Identifies, qualifies, and proactively solicits new catering and event business to achieve individual and hotel revenue objectives. Maintains a thorough understanding of market dynamics, including competitor strengths and weaknesses, economic trends, and supply-and-demand factors, and leverages this knowledge to drive sales success. Secures the most profitable business opportunities based on market conditions, hotel objectives, and revenue strategies. Utilizes effective negotiation, persuasion, and creative selling techniques to close business and finalize contracts. Designs, develops, and sells innovative catering, conference, and social event solutions tailored to client needs. Maximizes revenue opportunities through strategic up-selling of event packages, food and beverage offerings, and value-added services. Manages catering sales revenue and departmental budgets, and prepares accurate forecasts and performance reports. Develops and recommends menus and event packages that enhance guest satisfaction while driving sales and profitability. Oversees the administrative and operational aspects of booked business, including proposal preparation, contract generation, and client correspondence. Demonstrates and promotes brand service standards and daily service excellence practices. Ensures timely and effective resolution of guest concerns arising during the sales process by coordinating with operational teams and property leadership. Contributes to the hotel's financial success by increasing revenues, controlling expenses, and delivering a strong return on investment for both ownership and the company.

Providing Exceptional Customer Service

Delivers exceptional customer service throughout the entire event lifecycle, ensuring client expectations are consistently met and exceeded. Builds and maintains strong relationships with clients through proactive communication, responsiveness, and personalized service. Serves as the primary point of contact for catering, conference, and social event clients, ensuring a seamless and positive experience from inquiry to event completion. Anticipates customer needs and provides tailored event solutions that align with client objectives and preferences. Conducts site