Catering Sales Manager

at  Sonesta

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Catering Sales Manager sets the tone for Sonesta’s Culture of Caring. We expect leaders to focus on creating amazing moments for guests and team members and dig deep to find ways to create success for their team.
The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for the leadership, effectiveness and productivity of the Banquet Services department. The role’s primary responsibility is to drive results through their entire department.
The Catering Sales Manager will develop business through direct sales solicitation; secure new accounts, maintain existing accounts and execute tactical sales plans strategy to maximize the profitability of the hotel while maintaining guest satisfaction. Oversee client functions to ensure customer satisfaction.
Sonesta managers are charged with providing strategic vision, ensuring tactical execution, and actively managing their department to achieve the company’s revenue and profitability goals and objectives.
The ideal candidate has a passion for building and motivating teams that achieve results. Sonesta managers are guest-focused (both internal and external), achievement-oriented leaders.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Work Environment This position works mostly in a service environment, with some office time. Strong floor presence is required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Some College plus 1-2 years sales or catering related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of hotel and food & beverage operations preferred.
• Must speak fluent English. Other languages preferred.
• Understanding of and previous experience in a union environment a plus.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

A candidate for this position must possess the following applicable knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to demonstrate and provide applicable examples to support his/her competency.

• Track record of delivering exceptional guest and client experience.
• Demonstrable expertise in analysis and action taking.
• Demonstrated ability to interact with customers, employees and third parties that reflects highly on the hotel, the brand and the Company.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize and organize work assignments.
• Extensive knowledge of hotel and hospitality industry.
• Frequently standing up or moving within and outside of the facility
• Carrying or lifting items weighing up to 25 pounds
• Handling objects
• Bending, stooping, kneeling

WHO WE ARE

We are an organization made up of people, thoughts and ideas – all working towards fulfilling our simple mission: To wow every guest, team member, partner & community we operate in by delivering quality, value & amazing hospitality.
We will achieve our mission by being passionate about exceeding expectations - by being persistent, resilient, and constantly seeking new and creative ways to succeed. Doing the Right Thing and Going Beyond are our principles that guide everything we do.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.
The statements in this job description are intended to represent the key duties and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be ALL responsibilities or qualifications of the job. This job description is subject to change at any time.
Additional Job Information/Anticipated

• Operational/Functional:
• Establish client base of individuals, organizations, associations, social, and/or corporate businesses through direct outside and inside sales efforts to secure business for the hotel to ensure that catering revenue goals are met or exceeded. Actively prospect and qualify new business.
• Negotiate guest room rates, meeting room rental, function space, and/or hotel services within approved booking guidelines. Accurately produce and/or review all sales contracts, rate agreements, and/or banquet/catering event orders.
• Monitor and handle inquiry calls and provide client proposals in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures
• Work closely with other hotel departments to facilitate services agreed upon by the sales office and prospective clients. Disseminate sales-related information to other departments as appropriate.
• Check function room set ups prior to guest arrival, ensuring all details are in agreement with client’s requirements and hotels standards. Ensure deficiencies are corrected by appropriate personnel.
• Welcome group contact upon arrival at function and ensure guest satisfaction.
• Monitor and ensure all functions are set up, refreshed, and broken down in compliance with scheduled times and departmental procedures.
• Arrange and conduct special events, site inspections, and off-site presentations for potential clients. Entertain clients in accordance with established company and hotel policies and guidelines.
• Maintain client files and update information daily in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures. Produce monthly sales-related reports and sales forecasts for assigned area of responsibility.
• Attend and represent hotel at trade shows and conventions and/or participate in sales trips to key feeder markets.
• Follow up with guests regularly during and after departure to ensure satisfaction and secure future bookings.
• Promote teamwork and quality service through daily communication and coordination with other departments. Key departmental contacts include all hotel departments.
• Interact with outside contacts:

Guests – to ensure their total satisfaction Airlines, wholesalers, corporate accounts, travel agencies, ad agencies, etc. – to ensure repeat business, follow up on events, and generate new business Other contacts as needed (Professional organizations, community groups)

• May assist in developing and implement sales actions plan as assigned. May also participate in the annual budgeting and planning process.
• May assist client in menu planning. May coordinate food, beverage, table arrangements and decorations with Banquet Department.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• .Strategy and Planning:
• Participate in the preparation of the hotel’s strategic plan, marketing plan and overall goals. Prepare monthly forecasts and annual plan for the division.
• Monitor and control inventories of operating equipment, tools, and supplies.
• Financial Management:
• Manage the operating budget and achieve all revenue and expense targets. Assist with development, implementation, and execution of capital projects.
• Develop and monitor the budget and forecasting process.
• Managing your Team
• Manage, Train Coordinators
• Leading with Passion
• Responsible for ensuring success through the eyes of employees, guests, and owners.
• Utilize and collaborate with resources across different departments and corporate office.
• Capable of influencing employees to perform to their highest standard and establishing a trusting environment to enrich the culture.
• Focus on the mission and well-being of the department, hotel, and company as a whole.
• Lead by example and operate with integrity and respect.
• Inspire your team to embrace and demonstrate our values and GUEST People Standards.