Catering/Conference Services (CS) Manager

Responsibilities

• Detail and service all assigned bookings with group rooms and/or event space that is turned over by the sales team.
• Ensure that all room blocks, and event spaces are managed and maintained the Sonesta guidelines.
• Conduct all important functions and audits that will ensure smooth operation and servicing of groups and events including but not limited to taking deposits, entering room lists, sending confirmation numbers, monitoring pick up, extending group blocks and rates, creating resumes, reviewing invoices and commissions.
• Prepare and distribute all Banquet Event Orders (BEO). Ensure all BEO paperwork is completed in a timely and accurate manner. Attend daily BEO meetings.
• Assist the client in menu planning, food and beverage coordination, table arrangements, decorations, traffic flow, room set-up, group room blocks and VIP services, etc.
• Check function/event room set ups prior to guest client arrival, ensuring all details are in agreement with client’s requirement and hotel standards. Ensure deficiencies are corrected by appropriate personnel.
• Coordinate and/or lead meetings such as pace review, resume meetings, internal and external pre-cons, credit meetings etc. as per the (internal and external) clients’ needs.
• Coordinate functions and activities with other department heads as appropriate and communicate the Meeting/Event planner’s needs to appropriate staff.
• Arrange and conduct special events, site inspections, and off-site presentations for potential clients.
• Prospect, solicit, negotiate, and book new and repeat business to ensure maximization of revenue in order to achieve and/or exceed budgeted revenue goals.
• Establish client base of individuals, organizations, associations, social, and/or corporate businesses through direct outside and inside selling to secure business for the hotel.
• Ensure that the Sonesta CRM is maintained in accordance with Sonesta guidelines, and contains accurate and most up to date information
• Achieve personal and team goals as assigned.
• Negotiate guest room rates, meeting room rental, function space, food and beverage prices, function space, and hotel services within approved departmental guidelines.
• Accurately produce and/or review all sales contracts, addendums rate agreements, and/or banquet/catering event orders.
• Monitor and handle inquiry calls and provide client proposals in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures.
• Attend weekly sales, revenue and department meetings as necessary.
• Assist the Director of Sales & Marketing/Director of Conference Services with Budget and Forecast and complete special projects and assignments as designated.
• Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming.
• Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
• Maintain client files and update information daily in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures.
• Review daily postings of charges to master accounts of clients and resolve any discrepancies, or process necessary adjustments.
• Review final bill prior to presenting to client.
• Assist in the preparation of the departmental budget and implementation of the hotel’s catering and conference strategy.
• Utilize and collaborate with resources across different departments and corporate office.
• Lead by example and operate with integrity and respect.
• Inspire your coworkers to embrace and demonstrate Sonesta’s core values and the guest service standards.

Requirements

• High school degree or equivalent required. College course work in related field preferred.
• 1-2 years hotel experience required, experience in sales and/or front desk is a plus.
• Intermediary knowledge of MS Outlook and Words is required.
• Proficiency in English reading and writing is a must. Bilingual or muti-lingual skills are a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize and organize work assignments.
• Knowledge of hotel and hospitality industry.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in Salesforce FDC and/or Opera is a plus.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with Company Match
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Paid Vacation & Sick Time
• Paid Parental Leave
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Company-Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness & Accident Insurance
• Educational Assistance
• Sonesta Hotel Discounts (yes, you’ll want to use these ✈️)
• Additional Perks & Employee Discounts