Catering & Conv Svcs Mgr - LSC

Job Summary We are looking for an enthusiastic and capable Customer Service professional to provide exceptional service to in‑house groups. The role involves upselling, booking, and servicing corporate and social business while building strong relationships with clients. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Operational Responsibilities Manage calls, electronic, and walk‑in catering leads. Provide conference services for the majority of in‑house conventions. Maximize catering revenues from convention groups wherever possible and minimize erosion of check averages from price‑sensitive groups. Communicate function arrangements to all responsible hotel departments. Communicate with clients prior to conventions to initiate, negotiate, and close contracts for all catered functions. Create profitable menus and distribute client expectations to the Food & Beverage Departments. Coordinate catering support services (flowers, entertainment, decoration, A/V, etc.) to provide complete client satisfaction. Physically double‑check function arrangements against client specifications and correct where necessary. Solicit spin‑off catering events from conventions at competing hotels. Solicit new and repeat business by directly selling in the local social catering market. Build and maintain detailed notes, files, and trace systems. Participate in daily business review meetings, BEO, and resume meetings. Prepare proposals, contracts, banquet event orders, resumes, and all other paperwork related to individual bookings. Oversee client functions to ensure customer satisfaction. Research and cost out new menu items; assist room salespersons in closing contracts. Communicate client contracts effectively to ensure repeat bookings. Maximize revenues for the hotel through upselling techniques. Other duties as assigned by the Director of Sales and Marketing. Show clients the hotel facilities by conducting property tours. Meet budget and booking goals. Maintain knowledge of local and national catering trends. Follow up promptly on leads. Block meeting space and sleeping rooms accurately in Thynk. Contribute to monthly and quarterly reports for the Director of Sales & Marketing. Maintain integrity of cost controls and proper upkeep of assets. Guest Services Respond to guest inquiries, requests, and concerns in a timely manner. Investigate and resolve any service issues, recovering the guest as appropriate. Make and receive calls regarding guest experience to ensure satisfaction. Team Support and Training Always be available to assist other departments as needed. Attend and complete company‑mandated training. Attend and participate in company‑organized training. Relentlessly train and motivate customer service employees. Communication and Reporting Conduct site inspections and provide monthly forecasts, weekly solicitation, and activity reports. Provide and communicate detailed BEOs and resumes (and updates) to ensure all departments meet guest expectations. Attend daily stand‑up and BEO meetings; communicate answers to any questions promptly. Review and respond to emails effectively without delay. Safety & Compliance Comply with Valencia Hotel Group standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient operations. Report unsafe conditions. Complete all required certification, harassment, and safety and security training. Report any incidents and create an incident report on the same day. Basics Maintain cleanliness and organization in all work areas. Display courteous behavior with guests and team members. Report any unsafe conditions immediately. Ensure equipment is in proper working condition. Perform any additional duties assigned by the supervisor. Physical Requirements Frequent sitting. Frequent standing/walking, including walking approximately one block to/from the hotel location. Lifting/carrying typically less than 15 lbs; occasionally lifting and carrying heavier items. Handle/grasp paperwork; use phone and computer devices frequently. Working Environment Primarily indoor office setting with occasional exposure to weather conditions. Walk on carpet, tile, hardwood flooring, concrete, stairs, and elevators in guest and back‑of‑house areas. Walk in kitchen areas on occasion. Candidate Profile Education and Experience High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred. At least 2 years of catering or conference services experience. Essential Skills and Qualifications 2+ years of catering or conference services sales experience. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Effective time management and problem‑solving skills. Clear and effective communication with others. Team player with attention to detail. Excellent organizational and interpersonal abilities. Contributes to team results. Valid TABC and Food Handlers certifications. Benefits Medical, Dental, and Life insurance. Paid Time Off. Paid Community Service Days. Valencia Hotel Group (and all its affiliates) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all persons and actively seek a diverse and representative workforce. The company does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or ancestry in recruiting, hiring, placement, or promotion. #J-18808-Ljbffr Valencia Group