Sales and Catering Manager

Job purpose

A Sales Manager analyses local market trends and competitor activity to recommend strategies that keep the hotel a leader in the marketplace through the development of future and repeat business. As a Sales, Group & Catering Manager, you will also be responsible for managing all group bookings and catering operations as well as working with the Food & Beverage Manager and Front Office Manager to maximize revenue opportunities through the sale of conference facility space and guest rooms. 

Duties and responsibilities

• Maximize all conference & events revenue opportunities
• Manage all conference & events
• Manage all Group bookings and arrivals
• Review sales and ensure proactive measures to fill hotel and conference space capacity
• Analyze local market trends and competitor activity to identify business leads
• Develop customer accounts and travel within the local area to drive business into the specific hotel and to increase market/customer share in all revenue streams
• In conjunction with the Front Office Manager, negotiate room rates/packages with corporate and independent clients
• Develop and implement creative local marketing channels, including social media channels to promote the hotel and its food & beverage outlets
• Prepare company contracts for the hotel in accordance with current business and pricing conditions
• Work within current business strategies and recognize potential opportunities
• Cooperate with other departments in the hotel to create an exceptional Guest experience and build strong, comprehensive sales programs
• Attend Sales events, as required
• Produce accurate and timely reports that meet the needs of the General Manager
• Answer customer queries in a prompt and professional manner
• Manage staff performance in compliance with company policies and procedures
• Responsible for the Best Western and OTA local site content including photos, descriptions, etc.
• Managing offline and online marketing activities
• Create and execute a strategic and comprehensive sales and marketing plan, including media planning as well as creative/visuals

Skills and Abilities

• Positive attitude and good communication skills
• Commitment to delivering a high level of customer service
• Excellent grooming standards
• Ability to work under pressure and under own initiative
• Experience in a sales role with a proven track record to close a sale
• Knowledge of local market
• Knowledge of hospitality
• Passion for sales and for achieving targets and objectives
• College degree in Sales, Marketing or Hotel Management
• Experience of working in a similar sales and marketing position in the hospitality sector
• Experience in developing and implementing effective and realistic marketing plans and strategies, including budget evaluation, management and reporting
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with various levels of management
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, budget management, project and time management
• Ability to influence others in key situations whilst maintaining positive relationships
• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills to include strong leadership, cultural sensitivity