• Directs the overall planning and implementation of meetings and events for the organization. The position acts as a liaison between event planning, sales, catering, convention services, technology and the customer to ensure consistent, high-level event execution for all events
• Lead the Event Planning Team (4+ Event Planning Managers) while supporting Sales, Sales Coordinators and Administrative Assistants
• Ensures the team maximizes revenue opportunities by up-selling and accurately forecasting all events
• Hire, train, develop, assess and empower staff to achieve team goals
• Maintain knowledge of the competitive set
• Stay abreast of industry trends within the hospitality industry
• Assist in issue resolution for challenges that may arise between sales, event planning and clients
• Attend meetings as appropriate
• Develop team through ongoing training and coaching in accordance with individual and departmental goals. Coordinate appropriate training to ensure 100% product knowledge and event planning skills
• Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with all direct reports
• Periodically accompany all sales and event planning managers on site inspections, client appointments and menu tastings to ensure consistency in sales and event planning process while maintaining quality standards
• Conduct employee evaluations annually
• Assist in team development as appropriate
• Assigns all events turned over to the Event Planning team. Leads execution of activities to support the Event Management strategy. Ensures the property is apprised of all groups that will impact property operations.
• Manages customer budgets to maximize revenue and meet customer needs. Works with highly complex or high profile groups when financial impact will be significant.
• Leads the catering menu development process.
• Leads Event Management meetings including the BEO meeting.
• Develops working relationships with outside vendors and establishes prices and service agreements to enhance the event experience and to increase additional revenue opportunities for the property.
• Consult with clients in order to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences and galas.
• Establishes customer service guidelines so team members understand expectations and parameters.
• Provides guidance and feedback to help team members develop and strengthen skills and abilities needed to accomplish work objectives.
• Any other reasonable duties as required by management.
• Minimum of 7 years of Event Planning experience
• Proven team motivator
• Ability to demonstrate outstanding leadership skills as well as impeccable associate and customer relations.
• Proven management experience
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to build successful relationships
• High level of enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and highly self-motivated
• Ability to work with all levels of individuals
• Knowledge of the DC Metro business community a plus
• Basic proficiency using a CRM system
• Must be adaptable, professional, courteous, motivated and work well on your own or as a member of a team
• Ability to handle a dynamic environment and challenging workload
• Experience in tourism, hotel, and/or hospitality industry is required. Working at a venue is a definite plus.
• Bachelor’s degree