Event Planning Manager

The Wayfarer DTLA, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is actively searching for an Event Planning Manager to join the team! The primary focus is on executing all aspects of event planning including meetings, reunions, social functions, and catering. Essential Functions and Responsibilities of the job include but are not limited to: Coordination of all group and banquet business as developed by the Sales Manager(s) or Director of Sales. Contact and appropriately follow-up on all signed/contracted business. Determination and coordination of all event planning needs. Review and update banquet menus/packages/upgrades regularly to maximize revenue and ensure customer needs are met. Detailing (BEO Creation) of all groups with meeting or events with client specifications including space requirements, times, equipment, menus, theme, décor, staffing etc. Communicate upcoming deadlines to clients i.e., cutoff date, room list due, final guarantee due etc. Receive and post deposits and final payments, ensure direct billing is established as applicable. Prepare the appropriate paperwork, including banquet event orders, coordinate with the appropriate areas in the hotel, resolve any issues, complaints, and problems to ensure a quality product delivery and customer satisfaction. Responsible for effectively communicating with the various departments to ensure that the meeting and related functions are executed to the client’s expectation or better. Exhibits a positive and involved team attitude to all hotel departments and maintains open communications with all coworkers for the best overall performance of the hotel. Is responsible for rebooking groups and event business through building strong, professional customer relationships and providing consistent outstanding customer service. Focuses on revenue-producing activity and maximizes selling time through retaining accounts/customers, maximizing upsell opportunities and direct sales effectiveness. Solicit new and existing accounts to meet and exceed revenue goals through proactive sales efforts via telephone, outside sales calls, site inspections and written communication. Provide overall direction and coordination for events to restaurant/banquet staff. Attend and assist with menu tastings and pre/post con meetings with clients. Communicate all relevant information to the chef/banquet staff and other appropriate departments in a detailed and timely manner. Greet host (on-site contact) for assigned events and provide formal introduction and handoff to Banquet Captain. Complete quarterly sales objectives and ongoing action plan, as directed by the Director of Sales. Conduct hotel site inspection and customer presentations. Meet and exceed individual productivity goals. Respond promptly to all sales related inquiries and correspondence from customers, prospects, and lead referrals. Conduct weekly quota of proactive sales calls in the form of telephone calls, hotel site inspections, trade shows and networking functions/meetings. Utilize the hotels sales system in accordance with Company standards. Knowledge/Education/Experience Two years hotel catering sales experience. Skills/Abilities/Other Requirements Must have strong English skills, both oral and written. Strong presentation, communication and organizational skills required. Ability to make timely, effective decisions. Ability to prioritize, organize and make good judgments. Ability to maintain good team member relations. Ability to develop and maintain effective guest relations. Ability to work long hours, 5 to 6 days a week. Basic accounting procedures. Computer skills; Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Dependable. Health Benefits, Travel Perks & More Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401k, Vacation and Sick Leave are offered with this position along with a Team Member Travel Program, encouraging each team member to visit sister properties and enjoy exclusive team member rates for rest and relaxation. We also encourage quarterly team building and giving back to the communities in which they work through regular volunteering, and select charity promotions throughout the year. Pay Range $25.00-$30.00 per hour #J-18808-Ljbffr