Conference & Events Manager

POSITION: Conference & Events Manager

DEPARTMENT: Conference Services

STATUS: Full Time/Salary

LOCATION: Deerhurst Resort, Huntsville, ON - this is an on site position

Why Deerhurst?

Nestled in the heart of Muskoka, Deerhurst Resort can become your new office with a view. Becoming a Host unlocks a world of opportunity to not only grow your hospitality career but yourself as well. On top of the beautiful and relaxing surroundings Deerhurst Hosts enjoy complementary activities such as Golf, Recreation activities, pool and gym access. Discounts on food, clothing and concessions, and hotel stays are just some of the perks available to all Hosts. Affordable staff housing is available on site and includes laundry, internet, shuttle service. Join our team and find out why thousands of people visit Deerhurst every year. Apply to Deerhurst today, Muskoka’s preferred place to work and play.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Conference & Events, the primary focus of this position is to coordinate and execute all aspects of conferences, weddings, day functions, tour groups and small meetings as assigned. This role acts as a liaison between the client and operating departments to ensure a successful meeting and re-book business.

Responsibilities

• On-site contact/point person for Deerhurst Resort’s conferences & events
• Creates a smooth and timely transition from sales process to conference servicing for assigned groups.
• Achieve set targets above the initial contract revenue via up-selling during the planning stage of each event
• Confirm event related information with client.
• Maximize sales and revenue for the hotel by ensuring a sales attitude is adopted at all times, being aware of all sales opportunities within all areas of the resort,
• and proactively promoting resort service
• Organize & distribute information to all departments through Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and group resumes in a professional and timely manner.
• Work with Chef(s) to build creative menus, mindful of food costs, labor cost, and kitchen capabilities.
• Build strong working relationships with our clients and develop an understanding
• of their specific needs and requirements
• Create floor plans for the best use of space for each event and to ensure banquet and client are in agreement prior to set up
• Obtain guaranteed guest counts for food and beverage events for the Banquets and Kitchen teams. Communicate in a timely manner when any significant deviation in numbers is known, allowing labor and food cost to be controlled.
• Solicit outstanding rooming lists and allocations adhering to the timings agreed at the contract stage
• Approach tasks orderly, with tenacity and determination, completing work to the required standard within the deadlines agreed to with the client
• Initiate billing procedures ensuring client credibility and that deposits and/or credit applications are received with adequate information and within an acceptable time frame.
• Conduct pre-conference meetings to ensure key departments are fully aware of relevant details pertaining to groups upon their arrival.
• Carry out post event follow up with client Operations/Sales team as necessary
• Be flexible, responding quickly and positively to changing requirements

Skills, Abilities & Attributes

• Guest oriented with a sincere, helpful, caring and friendly personality
• Decision maker who can take initiative to execute events within operating guidelines
• Able to work well with multiple departments and manage clients’ requests
• Precise attention to detail, order and execution
• Organize and prioritizes work in order to ensure guaranteed response limes and deadlines are met
• Exceptional energy, flexibility with work schedule and professionalism
• Enjoys offering exceptional service and meeting the needs of others
• Has effective communication skills (verbal, listening, writing)
• Able to adapt in a fast pace, constant changing environment within a dynamic work schedule
• Must be able to evaluate and select among alternative courses of action quickly and accurately
• Works well in a stressful, high-volume work setting to meet the deadline demands
• Must maintain composure and objectivity under pressure
• Demonstrates ability in identifying difficulties and making recommendations for problem solving efficiency
• Must be effective at listening to, understanding, clarifying and resolving the concerns and issues raised by conveners, meeting planners and guests
• Motivated, committed and enthusiastic, seizing opportunities to learn new skills or knowledge in order to improve

Education & Experience

• Diploma from a recognized hospitality and/or management related course
• 4 years progressive experience in related Catering/Conference, Banquet environment required.
• Food and beverage background an asset.
• Driver’s abstract with a clean driver’s record
• As a resort property opened 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, our leaders should not expect a set work schedule. Leaders should anticipate working a rotating schedule, shift work and weekends

Visa Requirements: Must be eligible to work in Canada

The above job description is not intended to be exhaustive lists of all responsibilities, skills or efforts associated with or expected of the role, but are intended to accurately reflect principal job elements.

The Perks for All Team Members

• Gain experience in a fun environment
• Free resort pass access: complimentary access to all on site activities and amenities, pool, gym and more!
• Hotel, retail and restaurant discounts
• Meet new people and work within a great team