General Summary of Duties:
The Catering Sales Manager is responsible for prospecting, selling and negotiating catered events at the hotel. This position will conduct tours of the hotel, schedule menu tastings/ meetings with clients and be the point of contact between the client and the hotel throughout the preplanning and execution phases. The Catering Sales Manager’s goal is to provide a seamless planning process and produce events that exceed the expectations of clients. This position is responsible for the successful outcome of programs from pre-arrival through to post-departure by collaborating effectively and in a timely manner with the operational teams on all execution details. This person should have extensive knowledge of event planning and management as well as food & beverage.
Examples of Duties (includes but is not limited to the following):
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Manage and execute the terms of the contract for the group/convention/program as outlined by the Sales Manager and per JW Marriott standards
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Maximize food, beverage and auxiliary revenues by selling menus, themes and experiences/activities
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Communicate all details of assigned groups/conventions/weddings/programs to all departments in a professional, thorough and timely manner by using Convention and Social Group Resumes, Banquet Event Orders and internal correspondence effectively
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Establish close working relationships with clients and JW Marriott Nashville employees
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Efficiently reserve and utilize function space to maximize revenues while minimizing space consumption
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Facilitate pre-conference meetings with clients and key hotel staff
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Work closely with the client and hotel departments throughout the duration of assigned groups/conventions/programs by being available to assist the client and provide information to hotel departments at the appropriate times
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Maintain a high level of service by continually providing accurate and timely information and feedback to all supporting departments
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Accurately forecast Banquet revenue, covers and average checks based on group assignments
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Conduct pre-planning site meetings and assist in the sales process where required
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Maintain the integrity of Sales & Catering at all times
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Perform additional duties and projects as assigned
Position Requirements:
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Ability to speak, read, write and understand English
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Professional demeanor appropriate for a luxury environment
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3-5 years of convention/event servicing and catering experience required
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Strong culinary and beverage knowledge and interest
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Knowledge and understanding of the Hotel guest room inventory
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Proven ability to plan and organize events effectively, with an acute sense of detail
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Assertive, professional and positive approach with a proven ability to develop and lead in a team environment
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Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
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Expert working knowledge of Sales & Catering, CI/TY and Social Tables
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Ability to work independently and maintain a positive attitude within a busy environment
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Proven leadership and staff development skills with good decision making ability
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
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Must be organized, personable and enthusiastic
Education:
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Degree in Hotel / Hospitality Administration from a recognized University/College/Polytechnic Institute preferred
Typical Physical / Mental Demands:
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Must be able to stand walk, sit
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Must be able to bend, stoop, crouch
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Must use hands to reach, grasp, handle, pull and push
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Must have good near and far vision
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Must be able to hear, talk, smell
