Director of Catering

Overview: As the Director of Catering & Conference Service Management, your primary responsibility entails optimizing both catering revenue and profitability for The Westin Sarasota Hotel. This dynamic and rewarding role necessitates strong leadership, where you will strategically spearhead catering sales initiatives, not only driving revenue through your personal accounts but also providing oversight to the Catering Sales and Conference Services Team. Your performance will be instrumental in the hotel's success and growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with clients to understand their event requirements and preferences.
• Develop comprehensive event proposals, including menus, pricing, and timelines.
• Oversee the planning and execution of diverse events, including weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, banquets, and social gatherings.
• Ensure seamless event execution, from setup to breakdown.
• Research and analyze market trends, competitor offerings, and customer preferences.
• Identify opportunities for growth and potential client segments. Actively seek out and generate leads through various channels, including industry events, referrals, and digital marketing.
• Build a robust pipeline of potential clients for catering services.
• Actively pursue prospective clients for future and repeat business through various sales channels.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.
• Ensure client satisfaction through exceptional service and responsiveness.
• Create compelling sales presentations and proposals tailored to each client's needs and preferences.
• Highlight the unique selling points and benefits of the catering services.
• Conduct site inspections as required.
• Develop effective pricing strategies that maximize revenue while remaining competitive in the market.
• Utilize upselling techniques to increase the value of catering packages.
• Negotiate contracts with clients, ensuring terms and conditions are favorable and profitable for the catering department.
• Close sales deals while adhering to company policies.
• Maintain accurate records of sales activities, client interactions, and revenue projections.
• Generate regular reports to track sales performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to expand the client base and stay updated on industry trends.
• Develop and maintain relationships with industry organizations to establish professional networks.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as marketing and event planning, to identify cross-selling opportunities.
• Leverage existing relationships within the organization to drive catering sales.
• Solicit feedback from clients and incorporate suggestions into catering services.
• Continuously improve sales techniques and strategies based on market feedback and performance metrics
• Lead a team of catering, conference services professionals and coordinators.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that encourages teamwork and employee growth.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback. Coordinate with various departments (e.g., food and beverage, housekeeping, audiovisual) to ensure seamless event execution.
• Manage event logistics, including room setups, equipment rentals, and staffing requirements.
• Develop and manage the catering and conference services budget, monitoring expenses and revenue to ensure profitability.
• Collaborate with the Director of Sales & Marketing to create monthly forecasts.
• Ensure all interactions in catering and conference services meet or exceed guest expectations.
  
  

This description is a summary of primary responsibilities and qualifications. The job description is not intended to include all duties or qualifications that may be required now or in the future.

Behavioral Expectations

Be effective and innovative in handling and solving problems in the workplace.

Remain positive and helpful while working in a demanding environment.

Committed to the success and growth of the Company.

Act honorably, even when no one is watching.

Passionately provide personalized guest service.