What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Catering and Conference Services position at The Watergate Hotel?
The Hotel
Step inside a legendary revival at The Watergate Hotel, a luxurious urban resort located along the banks of the Potomac River. Here modern design blends with a storied past to redefine luxury. A place where travel and business are occasions worth celebrating, attention to every detail is the standard, and intrigue can be found just beyond every curve.
Location
The Watergate Hotel is centrally located in Washington, D.C., a city of political power, prestige, and elegance is culturally rich with theaters, museums, architectural splendors and unforgettable national memorials. The Watergate Hotel is situated within walking distance of the best the city has to offer.
Strategic Intent
Lead a team of Catering and Event associates in order to solicit and book Banquet and Catering Event functions resulting in customer satisfaction and profitability. Responsible for the sales and servicing of all banquet events in the areas of, but not limited to; group meetings, conventions, corporate catering, weddings, galas and other special occasions.
General Duties and Responsibilities
- Interview, hire, train, recommend performance evaluations, resolve problems, provide open communication and recommend discipline and/or termination when appropriate.
- Tour and inspect banquet and meeting space on a daily basis, reporting necessary repairs.
- Develop and conduct persuasive verbal sales presentations to prospective clients.
- Schedule and assign in detail, specific duties to all associates under supervision for the efficient operation of the Catering and Events Department, coverage of functions in accordance with productivity standards.
- Solicit new accounts and review previous banquet files to generate business. Oversee service of group functions once they are in house.
- Write banquet menus, memos, and send out amenities for VIP Guests. Review and revise Catering and Events Department, weekly events sheets and banquet event orders. Formulate and make revisions to annual and monthly forecasts.
- Negotiate, prepare and write contracts and enter information into the automated sales system.
- Interact with clients to determine needs and direct staff accordingly. Respond to telephone and walk-in inquiries of potential guests.
- Create special themes and menus.
- Communicate both verbally and in writing to provide clear direction to staff.
- Comply with attendance rules and be available to work on a regular basis.
- Perform any other job related duties as assigned.