Event Manager - Kimpton Gray Hotel

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Chicago, IL

Accommodation

About the position

The Event Manager at Kimpton Gray Hotel is responsible for overseeing the sales and operations of the catering and private dining departments. This role focuses on direct selling, maintaining client relationships, and ensuring seamless communication between the restaurant and hotel. The Event Manager will also stay updated on industry trends and develop creative strategies to enhance market presence and revenue.

Responsibilities

• Maintain appropriate balance of account maintenance, prospecting for new business, and build profitable relationships with clients.
• Produce marketing plan and assist in developing the annual sales budget with the restaurant team.
• Implement a monthly action plan in order to meet and exceed the budgeted sales goals.
• Complete weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual production reports; as well as weekly and monthly sales activity reports.
• Assist the Director of Catering in developing specific goals and strategies in assigned territory to positively impact revenues.
• Review and update menus, packages, and upgrades as requested to satisfy client needs and to maximize revenue.
• Be familiar with the hotel's competitive set and shared accounts.
• Communicate a clear sense of strategic direction and goals for assigned territories and markets.
• Maintain accurate and detailed notes and traces for accounts within the PMS and Catering Database.
• Join and attend appropriate market organizations.
• Adhere to the 'Sundown Rule' for all client correspondence.
• Supervise execution of banquets on occasion.

Requirements

• 2+ years of hospitality experience, ideally within a restaurant or related banquet setting.
• Previous structured sales training course is a plus.
• Strong sales and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication skills both internally and externally.
• Professional phone etiquette and writing skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Well organized, detail-oriented, with excellent follow-up skills.