
Area Events Service Manager
- Chicago, IL
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Transitions booking from Sales Manager seamlessly; including one on one meeting with Manager to familiarize with the program and client
- When necessary, participates in site inspections to assist in selling the Sonesta solution
- Ensures Delphi inventory is updated and accurate at time of file turnover based on contract.
- Confirm important details with client upon receipt of signed contract, reconfirming cutoff date, room block, deposits, and other miscellaneous details; sets traces in Delphi accordingly
- Review all clauses in contracts, addressing any potential inventory, payment, etc. issues at time of recognition.
- Monitors Room Blocks; provides pick-up updates on a regular basis
- Design and maintain event diagrams tailored to the unique requirements of each event
- Up-selling of program including amenities, suites, special requests, F&B, etc.
- Prepare and distribute group resumes
- Attend all resume meetings to review all group details to hotel departments
- Prepare all BEOs and Banquet Checks; receiving client sign off and distribute at least 10 days prior to event
- Responsible for timely receipt and processing of all rooming lists prior to cut off date
- Oversees all pre-arrival information, check in arrangements, billing procedures, changes and any discrepancies directly with client and departments.
- Clear communication with Culinary and Banquet Department on program / setup / dietary requirements
- Processes all necessary paperwork to ensure any revenue losses (attrition/cancellations) are documented and confirmed with client and accounting
- Expected to be on-site for all client functions
- Key contact and maintains ownership of all program details from time of arrival to departure.
- General oversight of event to ensure company standards are met.
- Work with Sales Manager to be present at meetings and upon arrival.
- Prepare for and oversee all pre-convention meetings (internal and with clients).
- Pre-blocking guest rooms when necessary to meet client requests when available.
- Ensuring that all banquet checks are accurate post event
- Preparation of final billing and payment with accounting
- Final follow-up / thank you with client
- BEO distribution
- Resume distribution
- Turnovers
- File management
- Misc. reports
- Assists in the physical movement of hotel or customer equipment or furnishings as necessary to complete a tight turn-around of public function space.
- Directly assists customers as necessary, which may require moving of up to 15lbs.
- Conducts regularly scheduled update meetings with the Area Director of Catering and Conference Services
- Updating turnover worksheet with actual room pickup, food & beverage revenue and room rental fees to review with Director of Catering & Conference Services and the Area Director of Sales & Marketing for forecasting
- Overseeing special projects that contribute to the success of meeting planning (i.e. social tables; SOPs; reader board maintenance)
- Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university; and a minimum of three years of catering and/or convention services leadership experience
- Ability to analyze reports and develop and implement strategies to improve outcomes
- Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions and percentages
- Ability to speak effectively to groups including customers and employees
- Proficient in Delphi FDC (preferred), including system setup, menu and items, BEOS and Banquet Checks
- Must speak fluent English
- Excellent oral and written communication
- Excellent organizational skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
- May be required to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays.
- Move, lift, carry, push, pull, and place objects weighing less than or equal to 15 pounds without assistance
- Requires grasping, writing, standing, sitting, walking, repetitive motions, bending, climbing, listening, and hearing ability and visual acuity
- Stand, sit, or walk for an extended period or for an entire work shift
- Reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling, and stooping
- Must be available to work variable days of the week to include weekends and holidays
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account with Company Match
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
- Paid Vacation and Sick Days
- Sonesta Hotel Discounts
- Educational Assistance
- Paid Parental Leave
- Company Paid Life Insurance
- Company Paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Various Employee Perks and Discounts
- Hospital Indemnity
- Critical Illness Insurance
- Accident Insurance