The main responsibilities and tasks of this position are listed as, but not limited to the following:
Sales Strategy Support and Assistance:
- Collaborate with the Director of Catering Sales to create and implement strategic sales plans aimed at meeting or surpassing the annual catering budget and increasing market share.
- Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of sales strategies, incorporating market feedback to suggest and implement improvements.
- Analyze market trends and competitor activities to help refine and adjust sales strategies.
- Design and plan meeting/event/wedding packages that maximize conversion rates and profitability for the hotel.
Team Support and Leadership:
- Support the Director in guiding and mentoring the catering sales team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
- Assist in setting performance objectives, conducting reviews, and providing constructive feedback to team members.
- Participate in the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes for new team members.
- Support the training of junior sales staff to ensure they acquire the skills necessary for optimal performance.
- Supervise the team to ensure adherence to service standards and methods.
- Enhance team capabilities through coaching and development opportunities to build future organizational strength.
Client Relationship Management:
- Establish and sustain robust relationships with a diverse client base, including corporate entities, government agencies, travel agencies, airlines, and event organizers.
- Anticipate and address client needs by tailoring catering solutions to their specific requirements.
- Assist in managing client communications, resolving issues, and ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
Sales and Revenue Management:
- Support the team in reviewing proposals and contracts, negotiating terms, and closing deals when necessary.
- Engage in industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to generate leads and build business relationships.
- Help manage function spaces, meeting rooms, and ballrooms to maximize revenue and optimize booking strategies.
- Contribute to upselling and cross-selling efforts, targeting new customers, and expanding existing accounts.
- Oversee the sales of various group business aspects, including hotel function and banqueting rooms, corporate events, weddings, and social celebrations.
- Build long-term client relationships through consistent sales services, follow-ups, and rapport-building.
- Secure new and repeat business by liaising with airlines, travel agencies, vendors, government bodies, and professional associations in local, domestic, and international markets.
- Actively prospect and manage inquiries, maintaining a full pipeline and exceeding catering revenue targets.
- Manage communications within the hotel and with clients, ensuring prompt follow-up and effective handling of inquiries.
- Monitor event production and adjust activities as needed to meet goals.
- Collaborate with Executive Chef to create new catering menus and concepts to maintain a competitive edge.
Event Coordination and Execution:
- Prepare and manage Banquet Event Order (BEO), ensuring all details are documented and agreed upon by all parties.
- Manage event deposits, payments, and billing, ensuring timely collection of all revenue.
- Attend or lead Banquet Event Order meetings, pre-con meetings, and other relevant meetings to ensure all departments are informed about event details and last-minute changes.
- Work with internal departments to ensure seamless event execution and fulfilment of guest requirements.
- Maintain high customer satisfaction through professional service and meticulous attention to detail in event delivery.
- Oversee the planning and logistics of large-scale events, including off-site events, ensuring client expectations are met.
- Follow up on post-events to address issues, gather feedback, and encourage repeat business.
- Continuously refine processes based on feedback, monitor catering sales performance, and drive innovation and necessary changes.
Market Analysis and Reporting:
- Conduct research to identify market trends and opportunities for business growth.
- Assist in tracking and reporting on sales performance, client satisfaction, and key metrics.
- Provide regular updates to the Director of Catering Sales, recommending improvements based on data analysis.
- Understand competitors' strengths, weaknesses, and pricing strategies, and implement approaches to maintain a competitive edge.
- Stay informed about market dynamics, client demographics, seasonal trends, and industry developments to keep the hotel ahead of the competition.
Budget and Financial Management:
- Assist the Director in preparing and managing the annual catering revenue and expense budget.
- Monitor financial performance to ensure targets are met and cost control measures are in place.
- Support in maintaining monthly revenue and expense forecasts within the specified variance.
Administrative Duties:
- Maintain accurate records of client interactions, sales activities, and event details using the hotel’s CRM system.
- Prepare regular reports on sales performance, client feedback, and market trends.
- Provide feedback and suggestions for continuous improvement in the wedding sales processes.
- Ensure compliance with all hotel policies and procedures, as well as relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
Other Duties:
- Perform any other duties that may be assigned by Management, demonstrating flexibility and a strong commitment to the hotel's success.
