The Senior Corporate Catering Sales Manager at The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills is responsible for driving corporate catering revenue through strategic sales, account development, and high-level event execution. This role focuses on both securing new corporate business and growing existing accounts, while acting as a trusted advisor to clients and leading the planning and execution process in partnership with the Banquet and Operations teams.
- Proactively solicit, negotiate and secure new and repeat catering business while adhering to through strategic selling, upselling and optimal use of event space to meet/exceed revenue goals.
- Manage the day to day relationship between the operations and the client, to ensure excellent service and smooth event delivery.
- Lead clients through the planning process, providing strategic guidance on event design, flow, and food & beverage to enhance both guest experience and revenue.
- Ensure exceptional service standards are maintained throughout the sales and event lifecycle, delivering a high-touch, luxury client experience
- Review and direct the work of outside contractors when needed while ensuring set-up, pricing and following through meets hotel and corporate quality standards and customer satisfaction is achieved.
- Approach all encounters with guests and team members in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service-oriented manner.
- Set solicitation goals with the Director of Events and Catering and meet or exceed solicitation goals and revenue goals.
- Actively develop and grow existing accounts while prospecting and securing new corporate clients through outbound sales efforts, networking, and industry engagement.
- Meet and greet guests upon arrival, review the course of events and introduce other staff members (banquet manager, captain, etc.).
- Develop menus, event agendas, and detailed BEOs with a high level of accuracy, ensuring all client expectations and operational needs are clearly communicated.
- Handle inquiry calls and outside sales calls. Follow through to completion of function(s).
- Maintain pricing integrity and propose upscale menus for all groups.
- Proactively manage and resolve guest concerns, ensuring timely follow-up and a seamless client experience.
- Keep immediate supervisor fully informed of all problems or matters requiring his/her attention.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with culinary, banquet, and hotel leadership teams to ensure seamless execution and proactively resolve operational challenges.
- Maintain current information and monitor booking trends to produce forecast figures and month-end reports.
- Comply with weekly and monthly forecasting procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Job Requirements:
- Minimum 5+ years of corporate and/or social catering sales experience, preferably in a luxury or lifestyle hotel environment
- Proven track record of meeting or exceeding revenue goals
- Strong knowledge of food & beverage operations and event planning
- Exceptional client relationship and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple high-touch events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
Requirements:
Education
- College degree in business administration or marketing area
Skills and Experience (Essential)
- At least 18 years of age
- Valid US Driver's license or an international driver's license
- Previous sales experience in a reputable hotel/restaurant
- Knowledge of computers
- Possess a good command of the English language and ability to clearly and pleasantly communicate with guests, both in person and by telephone
- Thorough knowledge of hotel services and facilities
Skills and Experience (Preferred)
- Previous managerial experience in hotel/resort sales
