Senior Catering Sales Manager

The Senior Catering Sales Manager is responsible for selling and negotiating high-profile events for the social market, specifically weddings, and galas, in Nashville’s first luxury hotel and only JW Marriott.  The successful candidate will conduct hotel tours, entertain customers in our food and beverage outlets and schedule menu tastings.  This individual will be the central point of contact between the client and the hotel throughout the preplanning and execution phases of all events. With world-class service and facilities to match, the Senior Catering Sales Manager’s goal is to provide a seamless planning process and produce extraordinary events. This position is responsible for the successful outcome of programs from pre-arrival through to post-departure through effective collaboration in a timely manner with the operational teams. This person should have extensive knowledge of sales and negotiation techniques, event planning, and client relations and be well-versed in banquet food & beverage.

Examples of Duties (include but is not limited to the following):

Negotiate and execute the terms of the contract between the property and clients

Network and prospect future business by being a local leader in the community

Develop and nurture current and future professional-client relations on behalf of the property

Maximize food, beverage, and auxiliary revenues through upselling of menus  and beverage

Communicate all details of groups /weddings/galas to all departments in a professional, thorough, and timely manner by using Social Group Resumes, Banquet Event Orders, and internal correspondence effectively

Establish close working relationships with clients and JW Marriott Nashville employees

Efficiently reserve and utilize function space to maximize revenues while minimizing space consumption

Facilitate pre-conference meetings with clients and key hotel staff

Work closely with the client and hotel departments throughout the duration of each program by being available to assist the client and provide information to other hotel departments at the appropriate times

Maintain a high level of service by continually providing accurate and timely information and feedback to all supporting departments

Accurately forecast Banquet revenue, covers, and average checks based on group commitments

Conduct pre-planning site meetings and assist in the sales process where required

Maintain the integrity of Sales & Catering at all times

Perform additional duties and projects as assigned

Position Requirements:

Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English

Professional demeanor appropriate for a luxury environment

3-5 years of catering sales experience in a full-service, luxury hotel (preferred but not required)

Strong culinary and beverage knowledge and interest

Proven ability to plan and organize events effectively, with an acute sense of detail

Assertive, professional, and positive approach with a proven ability to develop and lead in a team environment

Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook

Expert working knowledge of Sales & Catering, CI/TY, and Social Tables

Ability to work independently and maintain a positive attitude at an accelerated pace in a fast-moving environment

Proven leadership and staff development skills with good decision-making ability

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal

Must be organized, personable, and enthusiastic

Education:

Degree in Hotel / Hospitality Administration or Management from a recognized University/College/Polytechnic Institute preferred