The Director of Conference Services leads the Conference Services department at a full-service hotel, reporting to the Director of Sales. The role ensures client satisfaction for all conference space bookings and catered functions while maximizing profitability through upselling and cost control. It oversees sales strategy, marketing, revenues, service, menus, staffing and training for the department. The position also manages vendor agreements, forecasts and budgets, and the hiring, training and performance evaluation of departmental staff.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the overall leadership, coordination, and evaluation of the CS Department.
Work as intermediary between Sales and CS by receiving definite group turnover, assigning group contracts and following up on all assigned departmental duties
Possess the ability to detail any definite booking that is turned over to CS
Maximize revenue opportunity by overseeing the strategic assignment of meeting space.
Act as a dynamic self starter to build new client relationships and nurture existing relationships
Assist in the process to establish ancillary group activity needs and programs such as spa, recreation activities, equestrian activities, off site events, transportation, audio visual etc.
Participate in and conduct regular event order meetings with banquet support staff to ensure accurate service and communication of clients’ needs and desires.
Work closely with Executive Chef and Hotel Manager to establish strategic menu placements and experiences.
Hire, train and oversee all departmental staff
Develop monthly forecasts and yearly budgets with Director of Sales & Marketing to maximize profitability.
Maintain an awareness of competition through continual inspections and reviews of local promotions.
Ensure guest satisfaction by managing client relations and event surveys.
Maintain standard operating procedures for all conference services positions, including corporate requirements.
Contract yearly vendor agreements
Host weekly staff meeting and communicate directly to Director of Sales and Director of Sales & Marketing with all employee engagement outcomes.
Evaluate skill levels and performance of Conference Services team members including quarterly/yearly performance reviews and succession plans for advancement.
Maintain communication between all property departments.
Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

4 year college degree or 5 years of Conference Services experience in a similar Managerial Role at an upscale Hotel/Resort/Private Club and/or equivalent combination of education and experience

Nice to have

Solid working knowledge of Social Tables, Delphi, Outlook, or similar programs recommended.