Director of Event Sales

Founded in 2005 as Hudson Yards Catering, Union Square Events is a culinary and operations leader in the hospitality industry, partnering with a diverse portfolio of best-in-class clients. We produce one-of-a-kind catered events and unparalleled dining experiences in a variety of cultural, corporate, entertainment, and private venues throughout New York City and beyond.

This position is located at the Canoe Place Inn in Hampton Bays and will be primarily based on-site.

Job Summary

The Director of Event Sales at Canoe Place Inn is responsible for driving the event sales strategy and managing the events team to meet revenue goals for the hotel’s event space. This individual will work closely with both clients and the internal team to ensure seamless execution of events and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction. The role includes sales management, client relationship building, and strategic planning for event business.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sales Strategy and Revenue Generation:
• Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy for the hotel’s event space, including weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, and other social events.
• Meet and exceed revenue goals and targets for events by securing new business and retaining existing clients.
• Identify and target potential event clients through prospecting, networking, and marketing initiatives.
• Develop and refine pricing packages and sales collateral to attract new clients.
2. Client Relationship Management:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for event clients, guiding them through the sales process from initial inquiry to event execution.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with event planners, corporate clients, wedding coordinators, and other potential clients.
• Understand client needs and tailor event proposals to meet their expectations.
3. Team Leadership and Collaboration:
• Lead, train, and mentor the events sales team, ensuring alignment with overall sales goals and customer service standards.
• Collaborate with the operations team to ensure event requirements are understood and met, including coordinating with the culinary team, AV, logistics, and event staff.
• Monitor team performance and provide feedback and support to optimize results.
4. Event Coordination and Execution:
• Oversee event logistics and ensure that each event is executed to the highest standards.
• Coordinate with internal departments, such as food and beverage operations and hotel management to ensure smooth event execution.
• Address any issues or challenges that arise during events promptly and professionally.
5. Marketing and Promotion:
• Work with the marketing department to develop promotional materials and campaigns to increase event sales.
• Attend networking events and industry trade shows to promote the hotel’s event space and build relationships within the local event planning community.
6. Financial and Budgeting:
• Develop and manage budgets for event sales initiatives.
• Prepare regular reports on event sales performance and market trends for senior management.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with clients while ensuring the hotel’s profitability.
7. Continuous Improvement:
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to maintain the hotel’s competitive edge in event sales.
• Implement feedback from clients and the events team to enhance service offerings and streamline operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Marketing, Business Administration, or related field (preferred).
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in hotel event sales, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of event planning, hotel operations, and the local market.

• Hisotory of successfully hiring and training of managers, and is actively involved in the development of service techniques, menu presentation, policies and procedures

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven track record in sales and achieving revenue targets.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a team.
• Ability to multitask, solve problems, and handle high-pressure situations.

Preferred:

• Previous experience with luxury hotels or destination event venues.
• Familiarity with event management software and CRM tools.
• Knowledge of wedding, corporate, and social event trends.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position, with occasional evening and weekend hours required based on events.
• Ability to travel for business development and client meetings.

Salary : $115,000