Director of Catering

Job Description

Additional Information: This hotel is owned and operated by an independent franchisee, Shaner Hotel Group. The franchisee is a separate company and a separate employer from Marriott International, Inc. The franchisee solely controls all aspects of the hotel's employment policies and practices, including hiring, firing, discipline, staffing, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment. If you accept a position at this hotel, you will be employed by a franchisee and not by Marriott International, Inc.

Job Description

Lead Extraordinary Events at Daytona's Premier Destination Hotel

Located directly across from the world-famous Daytona International Speedway, The DAYTONA Hotel stands as the centerpiece of the vibrant ONE DAYTONA entertainment district. Surrounded by upscale dining, premier shopping, exciting nightlife, and just minutes from the iconic shores of Daytona Beach, The DAYTONA delivers a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience where luxury meets legendary.

As Daytona's premier trackside full-service hotel, we host unforgettable weddings, social celebrations, corporate events, galas, and destination gatherings that create lasting memories for our guests.

We're searching for a dynamic, results-driven Director of Catering to lead our catering sales efforts, grow market share, and elevate our reputation as the destination of choice for exceptional events.

If you are passionate about hospitality, energized by sales, and thrive on creating remarkable guest experiences, this is your opportunity to make an impact at one of Florida's most exciting hotel destinations.

Why Join The DAYTONA?

At Shaner Hotels, hospitality is more than a business-it's a passion.

We believe authentic connections create extraordinary experiences for our guests and meaningful careers for our associates. Our entrepreneurial culture encourages innovation, celebrates achievement, and empowers every team member to make a difference.

We don't settle for ordinary. We pursue excellence with purpose, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

When you join our team, you'll become part of a company that values leadership, rewards initiative, and invests in your success.

The Opportunity

As Director of Catering, you will be responsible for driving catering revenue, developing new business opportunities, and overseeing the planning and execution of events from initial inquiry through post-event follow-up.

You'll serve as both a strategic sales leader and trusted event partner, building strong client relationships while collaborating closely with hotel operations teams to ensure flawless execution and exceptional guest satisfaction.

What You'll Do

Drive Revenue and Grow Business

• Develop and execute strategic plans to increase catering and event revenue.
• Prospect, solicit, negotiate, and secure new catering business across multiple market segments.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, wedding planners, social organizations, and community partners.
• Identify emerging market opportunities and stay informed on industry trends and competitive activity.

Create Exceptional Client Experiences

• Meet with prospective and existing clients to understand event goals and vision.
• Conduct property tours showcasing the hotel's event spaces, guest accommodations, and amenities.
• Develop customized proposals, contracts, and Banquet Event Orders (BEOs).
• Recommend menus, enhancements, and event solutions that exceed client expectations while maximizing profitability.

Lead Seamless Event Execution

• Serve as the primary client liaison throughout the planning process.
• Coordinate closely with culinary, banquet, operations, and sales teams to ensure flawless event delivery.
• Attend BEO meetings, tastings, site visits, and event functions.
• Welcome clients and guests during events to ensure an exceptional experience.
• Conduct post-event follow-up to gather feedback and generate repeat business.

Support Department Leadership

• Partner with the hotel leadership on strategic initiatives and daily departmental operations.
• Maintain compliance with all hotel, franchise, and company policies and procedures.
• Contribute to a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 5+ years of successful catering sales experience in a high-volume resort, beachfront, luxury hotel, or destination hospitality environment.
• Proven track record of achieving and exceeding catering revenue goals.
• Strong sales, negotiation, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Exceptional organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Knowledge of banquet operations, event planning processes, and catering sales systems.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Marketing, or related field.
• Wedding sales and planning experience.
• Food and Beverage or culinary background.
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills.

What Success Looks Like

The ideal candidate is:

• A passionate hospitality professional who loves creating memorable experiences.
• A proactive sales leader who consistently seeks new business opportunities.
• A relationship builder who turns first-time clients into lifelong partners.
• A strategic thinker who understands both guest satisfaction and revenue performance.
• A team player who thrives in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.
• Schedule & Availability

This leadership position requires flexibility, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and attendance at client events based on business needs.

salaried compensation and benefits.

This company is an equal opportunity employer.

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About the Team

The Autograph Collection is a growing collection of four and five-star independent hotels, each offering unique and memorable experiences. Each hotel is thoughtfully chosen for its quality, originality, bold character, and ability to offer today's traveler a range of unique experiences suited to their individual sense of style and adventure. All Autograph Collection hotels look to attract The Individualist, the brand's target consumer. The Individualist is someone who uses travel as an opportunity to add to their personal narrative - in essence they are hand selecting our hotels whether for personal or corporate travel because it is much more than simply a place to rest. In joining Autograph Collection, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.