Director of Catering & Convention Services Wurzak Hotel Group is looking for an experienced Director of Catering and Convention Services to oversee all aspects of conferences and social events between hotel clients and other departments for The Dalmar & Element located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The Director of Catering and Convention Services is responsible for all aspects of conferences and events between clients and other hotel departments. This position will work closely with the hotel's Sales department. The Director of Catering and Convention Services oversees the Conference Service Manager as well as manages the events effort and supports the Director of Sales & Marketing on operational functions.
Responsibilities Develops Banquet Event Orders, Group Resumes, function room diagrams, and business correspondence
Utilizes CITY system for accurate blocking of events, groups, traces, and generation of BEOs
Obtains guarantees for food and beverage functions
Obtains all information required to prepare Group Resumes
Checks CITY Daily and Weekly reports
Obtains necessary approvals/permits/insurance certificates for functions
Leads pre-conference and post-conference meetings, departmental and BEO meetings
Supervises all group information/changes and communicates to appropriate hotel colleagues in an accurate and timely manner
Coordinates entertaining clients, as appropriate
Maintains an active trace system for all assigned groups
Visits primary and secondary competition
Audits banquet checks for assigned groups
Contracts business with approved vendors as appropriate
Approves payment and provides backup for contracted vendor business
Directs all aspects of conferences including but not limited to: food and beverage requirements, timing of events, audio visual requirements, special attention to guests, room type allocation, rooming list, amenities, function room setup, group transportation, check-in/check-out, special meal requests, arrival/departure manifests, bag pulls, luggage storage, complimentary rooms, billing instructions, authorized signatures, room deliveries, telephone and internet requirements, box storage and delivery, power requirements, security requirements, key requirements, expected F&B outlet usage, group hospitality/office/registration desk requirements, business center requirements, entertainment, leisure activities, décor (including floral) requirements
Refer business to approved suppliers of service/products as necessary
Coordination of events Support team members to coordinate luncheons, cocktail receptions, and professional dinner presentations
Answer inquiry calls and reply to RFPs
Actively solicit potential clients via telephone
Confirm function space availability and quote related room rental fees
Verify no conflicts with existing clients who may be industry competitors
Block function space in CITY
Generate and execute contracts
Secure deposits and final method of payment
Coordinate all logistical aspects of events as outlined in the above responsibilities
Ensure events are successful so clients become repeat customers
Perform other duties as requested by management
Education and Experience Four-year college degree in hospitality management, marketing, business or related field or equivalent experience
Five or more years of related experience in catering and conference services, preferably as a manager, in a luxury or lifestyle hotel
Familiarity with hospitality industry practices
Ability to travel locally and overnight
Knowledge of hospitality industry applications (CITY preferred)
Mathematical skills, computer software aptitude, and hotel operations knowledge
Reading, writing and oral proficiency in English
Willingness to work a flexible schedule
Self-motivated with the ability to handle multiple tasks and strong organizational skills
Perks Competitive salary
Paid time off
Medical, dental, vision health insurance
Robust supplemental insurance for life, AD&D, pets, legal services, and more
Wellness programs for mental, physical, and financial health
Hotel and travel discounts
Generous retirement/401k benefits
Education and professional development
Employee meals and recognition programs
About Us Wurzak Hotel Group (WHG) is a Philadelphia-based owner, developer, and operator of premium branded hotels and food and beverage outlets. WHG focuses on developing and operating hotels and outlets with entrepreneurial energy and a commitment to guest satisfaction. WHG is an equal opportunity employer with a zero-tolerance policy for workplace discrimination. EEO m/f/d/h
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