Director of Events - (Pre-Opening) Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur

As Director of Events at the pre-opening Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, you will lead the Catering Sales, Weddings, and Events Management team, working with Sales & Marketing to convert enquiries into confirmed sales. You will oversee all facets of the events department, drive revenue and utilization of event spaces, develop key client accounts, and collaborate with support departments to ensure successful events. You will also drive client loyalty through the Hilton Honors Event Planner Program and achieve KPIs including revenue and conversion targets.

Responsibilities

• Responsible in overseeing all facets the Events department and the overall success of all events in the hotel.
• Ensures optimum revenue and utilization of event spaces by driving generation strategies deemed fit based on the current trends and market intelligence.
• Responsible for developing and growing key account base of clients that have event requirements by establishing strong relationship, maintaining regular contact and probing further on the needs of these clients.
• Maintain close collaboration with different heads of support departments to ensure successful groups, events and functions through team work and effective communication of client needs.
• To drive the loyalty of clients and conversion Hilton Honors through the sign ups to the Event Planner Program.
• Achieve Key Performance Indicators including revenue, conversion and forecast accuracy as set and agreed upon.
• Develop Incentive Plan for GM&E Team (Reactive Sales Team and Events Team) to ensure all team members are motivated to source and convert all possible revenue opportunities.

Requirements

• Degree qualifications in Hospitality/Business Management or equivalent.
• At least 5 years of experience in managing hospitality sales/event planning team role preferred.
• Proven experience in leading large-scale event operations within hospitality.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing complex budgets.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency in hotel/event management software and digital tools.
• Strategic thinker with a creative mindset and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of industry trends and commitment to continuous innovation.