Catering Services Manager Job Opening
Catering Services Manager
The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection
• Newport, Rhode IslandSummary:
This position involves the sales of social events, planning, execution and service of Catering & Event functions at The Vanderbilt. Responsible for pro-active direct sales, marketing, appointments, site inspections, on-site coordination and execution of all event and catering functions. Works as a liaison to client and hotel to create unique and memorable experiences for our guests. Travel may be required to represent hotel at various trade shows and exhibits.
The ideal candidate will have a strong entrepreneurial spirit who is innovative, results-driven with a desire to exceed customer expectations. Exceptional business acumen with attention to detail, forecast accuracy, budget preparation. Focused on revenue generation with differentiating strategies. A leader and active member of the team, handling high profile catering and events. Willing to roll-up their sleeves to make things happen.
Position requires a schedule which matches client demand. Hours will flex based on event execution and site inspection requirements. It will be expected that the Catering Services Manager is present to greet all clients in advance of events, check in with them daily during on-site, and be present to review the final billing and conduct post-conference interviews. Weekends are mandatory for site inspections and when banquet or catering events are on property. It is expected that normal office hours will be held and typically will follow a schedule of Tuesday - Saturday 8:30 am to 6 pm. This can flex based again on sales and planning demand.
The role will report directly to the Director of Sales & Marketing and maintain a dotted line to the General Manager
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :
Supervision and overall responsibility of the Catering and Event Management functions at Vanderbilt. This includes but is not limited to: Menu and Event Proposals, Contracts, Banquet Event Orders, Catering Resumes, Daily Events Report, and Delphi Input Standards.
Actively prospect and solicit, develop, and maintain social catering accounts through telephone, personal sales calls, trade shows, and on-site entertainment.
Strong financial acumen with experience completing accurate forecasts.
Establishing and executing an annual Strategic Plan and Financial Budget.
Finalize the requirements of catering and group events while maximizing revenue potential through up selling and ensuring effective communication both written (Resumes, BEO, Daily Reports) and personal contact with all departments for the success of the event. Ensure accuracy of Banquet Checks and provide bill review on completion of program or event.
Supervise the execution of banquet events and corporate events at The Vanderbilt. Review all function space with banquet management. Ensure satisfaction of client at the outset of all events.
Find solutions to the inevitable challenges and glitches that arise while groups are on property and keep Executive Committee promptly and fully informed of all problems or unusual matters so prompt corrective action can be taken where appropriate.
Maintain knowledge of hotel facilities, capacities and dimensions of meeting space and basic operational needs of all operating departments.
Make timely and impromptu decisions, which balance client’s needs with the financial, safety and staffing goals of the hotel.
Plan and/or attend and/or participate in meetings with hotel staff and clients, including but not exclusive to: Morning Operations Briefing, Morning CS Briefing, Resume Meeting, Banquet Event Order Meeting, Sales Meeting, Pre-Convention Meetings, Menu Tastings and Planning Site Visits.
Identify new markets and business opportunities to increase sales.
Demonstrates professional and confident communication skills with clients and staff.
Exhibits a professional demeanor through appearance and by maintaining a positive attitude toward all employees and guests.
Implements all sales action plans related to my market areas as outlined in the marketing plan.
Executes and supports the operational aspects of business booked (e.g. generating proposal, writing contract, customer correspondence).
Solicits new, and builds on existing, catered contracted business to exceed revenue goals.
Provide the highest quality of service to the customer at all times.
Participates in sales calls with members of sales team to acquire new business and/or close on business.
Able to support the resort’s service and relationship strategy, driving customer loyalty by delivering service excellence throughout each customer experience.
Work closely with Revenue Manager to ensure proposed rate negotiations meet the financial needs of the hotels.
Develop strong relationships with on property front office team to ensure working in unity and always striving to achieve the same goals.
Assess additional training needs based on data gathered and interaction with sales team from property visits.
Attending all department and hotel meetings as necessary.
Targeting key accounts potential for the company.
Builds and strengthens relationships with existing and new customers to enable future bookings. Activities include sales calls, entertainment, FAM trips, trade shows, etc.
Develops relationships within community to strengthen and expand customer base for sales opportunities.
Manages and develops relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
Closely following up on all business leads within a 24-hour response time line to clients.
EXPERIENCE:
High School Graduate (required)
College Education (preferred)
Proven success in a similar role, prefer 4 years of Catering, Event & Wedding experience in a luxury market.
Experience in hotels / resorts or event planning is required.