Director of Catering And Convention Services

SkyBridge Luxury & Associates has partnered with a renowned hotel in Seattle to source an experienced and dynamic Director of Catering and Conference Services. This key leadership role will oversee all aspects of catering sales and event planning, with a focus on luxury weddings, high-profile corporate functions, and large-scale conferences. The ideal candidate will bring a strategic sales mindset, exceptional client service skills, and strong leadership abilities to drive revenue, enhance guest experiences, and maintain the hotel’s reputation as a premier event destination.

Key Responsibilities:

Sales & Business Development:

• Develop and implement strategic catering and conference services sales plans to maximize revenue.
• Cultivate relationships with corporate clients, wedding planners, and local businesses to secure repeat and new event business.
• Lead site visits, conduct client presentations, and negotiate contracts to ensure seamless event execution.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing team to develop wedding and event promotional campaigns.

Event Planning & Execution:

• Oversee the end-to-end planning and execution of weddings, corporate events, and conferences.
• Work closely with the culinary, banquet, and operations teams to ensure all events exceed client expectations.
• Implement best practices to optimize event logistics, timelines, and service standards.
• Maintain exceptional service delivery by ensuring all guest preferences and special requests are met.

Financial & Revenue Management:

• Develop and manage annual catering and conference sales budgets, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Monitor catering revenue performance, forecast future trends, and implement strategies to drive profitability.
• Optimize menu pricing, service fees, and package offerings to enhance overall revenue growth.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead and mentor a high-performing catering and events team, ensuring professional growth and development.
• Conduct regular team training, performance reviews, and coaching sessions to enhance service standards.
• Collaborate with all hotel departments to align catering and conference services with overall brand objectives.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of catering sales and conference services leadership experience in a luxury hotel or resort.
• Proven track record of success in selling and executing high-end weddings, corporate meetings, and large-scale events.
• Strong knowledge of Seattle’s hospitality and event market, including local trends and competitive insights.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Experience with Delphi, Social Tables, or other event management software preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.