What are the responsibilities and job description for the Catering Sales Manager - Embassy Suites Gulf Shores position at Embassy Suites Gulf Shore?
Sales & Business Development:
- Develop and implement sales strategies to drive business for the resort’s meeting and event spaces, with a focus on weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, and social events.
- Identify and pursue new sales opportunities across various market segments, including corporate, government, group, and social markets.
- Prospect and qualify new leads through networking, outreach, and strategic marketing initiatives to build a robust event pipeline.
- Conduct property tours, provide event space information, and present customized event proposals to prospective clients.
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with clients to close business and ensure profitability.
- Event Planning & Coordination:
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients from the initial inquiry through event execution, ensuring clear communication and exceptional service throughout the entire process.
- Coordinate and communicate all event details with internal departments (catering, banquet, AV, housekeeping, etc.) to ensure seamless execution.
- Collaborate with clients to design tailored event experiences, including customized menus, décor, and additional services to meet their specific needs and budget.
- Manage event timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to deliver a high-quality, on-time event.
- Oversee the setup and breakdown of events, ensuring the space is prepared according to client specifications and exceeds expectations.
- Client Relationship Management:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and key stakeholders to ensure repeat business and referrals.
- Address client concerns, issues, or last-minute changes promptly and professionally, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Conduct post-event follow-up to gather feedback, thank clients, and address any areas for improvement to ensure future success.
- Wedding Sales & Management:
- Specialize in wedding planning and sales, providing clients with personalized service to create memorable wedding experiences.
- Work closely with engaged couples to understand their vision, offer creative ideas, and execute the wedding planning process from start to finish.
- Provide expert advice on menu selection, décor, timeline, and vendor recommendations to enhance the couple’s experience.
- Ensure wedding events are flawlessly executed, with a focus on exceeding expectations and creating lasting memories for the couple and guests.
- Revenue Management:
- Achieve revenue and booking goals for the event space by actively selling and closing business, upselling additional services, and maximizing room block bookings.
- Analyze market trends, competitor offerings, and pricing to develop effective strategies that drive revenue growth.
- Monitor event budgets, ensuring profitability while maintaining high standards of service and client satisfaction.
- Track and report on sales performance, revenue generation, and event success, providing regular updates to the Director of Sales and Marketing.
- Team Collaboration & Leadership:
- Work closely with the hotel’s operations team, including catering, banquet, and front office staff, to ensure smooth event operations and exceptional guest experiences.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to promote the resort’s event space, including the development of promotional materials and online content.
- Assist in the training and development of junior sales or catering staff to ensure consistent service delivery across events.
- Event Administration & Reporting:
- Maintain up-to-date records of all event bookings, contracts, and client communications in the hotel’s CRM system.
- Prepare and submit event reports, forecasts, and business activity summaries to the Director of Sales and Marketing.
- Ensure that all contracts, deposits, and payment arrangements are completed accurately and in a timely manner.