Director of Catering and Events

Company Description

A treasured Austin landmark reimagined by internationally known designer Ken Fulk, Commodore Perry Estate will be a modern interpretation of a residential estate from eras past, where guests are invited to sit back, celebrate and be inspired with thoughtful conversation. The Estate will bring a new level of contemporary glamour and whimsical soul to the city in the form of a full service Hotel, private Mansion, Lutie's Restaurant, an over-sized outdoor pool, and exquisite outdoor and indoor event space. As a team member at Commodore Perry Estate, you will enjoy a sense of family like no other. We offer competitive compensation and benefits in a historical and fun working environment, where individuality is celebrated and dreaming big is encouraged.

Job Description

The Director of Catering and Events reports directly to the Area Director of Sales and is responsible for leading the Catering, Events, and Banquets team. Additionally, this role is also responsible for  selling and servicing all corporate/non-social events.  The position will set up the strategy to identify and source business as well as plan, detail and execute these functions.  This manager will handle pro-active direct sales, marketing, appointments, site inspections, on-site coordination and execution of all event and catering functions and works as a liaison to the client and hotel to create unique and memorable experiences for our guests.
 

The ideal candidate will have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, is innovative, results-driven with a desire to exceed customer expectations.  This role requires exceptional business acumen with attention to detail, forecast accuracy, and budget preparation. The candidate must have experience with revenue generation with differentiating strategies. Commodore Perry Estate is looking for a leader and an active member of the team, handling high profile catering and events, while willing to be a part of the operation. The Director of Catering of Commodore Perry Estate will become a part of the Fort Worth community, building relationships with key planners, city tastemakers and fellow industry professionals.
 

The position requires a schedule which matches client demand.  Hours will flex based on site inspection requirements and event execution.  It will be expected that the Director of Catering and Events is present to greet all clients in advance of events, check-in with them daily during on-site, and be present to review the final billing and conduct post-conference interviews.  Weekends are required when site inspections, banquet or catering events are taking place on the property.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of everything that needs to be done  Within this, the key responsibilities for this position are:

• Evaluate and initiate opportunities for developing new sources of business by actively prospecting and soliciting, developing, and maintaining social catering accounts through networking, telephone, personal sales calls, trade shows, and on-site entertainment.

• Responsible for Catering account and production goals for the hotels, supporting the total revenue goals (inclusive of rooms related revenues). 

• Establishes initiatives and executes direct sales objectives to promote Auberge Resorts brand.

• Ensures accurate forecasting each month.

• Maintains the integrity of revenues ensuring Delphi is kept up to date with accurate banquet checks  and matches the P&L each month

• Organize and schedule direct sales efforts via phone, email, and in-person; average of 5 prospecting efforts per day are expected (25 per week). 

• Accurately maintain and build a database of clients in property CRM (salesforce/Delphi or other as pms systems evolve). Responsible for the overall accuracy of the database.

• Responsible for development of BEOs for each event with accurate billing post-event, with production of documents by Sales Coordinator. 

• Provide matrixed supervision of Sales Coordinator.  

• The position requires mandatory attendance at scheduled site inspections, event kick-off, and hand-off to F&B team once everything is detailed out.

• Provide feedback and goals and objectives in preparation of annual sales plans and budgets.

• Evaluate promotional events, trade shows, community, and industry events to make sure attendance produces the proper return on investment. 

• Work with tourism organization to maximize area opportunities and buying power 

• Supervision and overall responsibility of the Catering and Event Management function at Commodore Perry Estate This includes but is not limited to the Menu and Event Proposals, Contracts, Banquet Event Orders, Catering Resumes, Daily Events Report, and Delphi Input Standards.

• Directly oversees the Director of Banquets to ensure proper staffing and steps of service for all events.

• Works closely with the Director of Banquets to ensure all banquet equipment and OS&E is up to date and in good working order.

• Finalize the requirements of catering events while maximizing revenue potential through up-selling and ensuring effective communication both written (Resumes, BEO, Daily Reports) and personal contact with all departments for the success of the event. Ensure accuracy of Banquet Checks and provide bill review on completion of program or event.

• Find solutions to the inevitable challenges and glitches that arise while groups are on the property and keep Executive Committee promptly and fully informed of all problems or unusual matters so prompt corrective action can be taken where appropriate.

• Maintain knowledge of hotel facilities, capacities, and dimensions of meeting space and basic operational needs of all operating departments.

• Make timely and impromptu decisions, which balance the client’s needs with the financial, safety and staffing goals of the hotel.

• Plan and/or attend and/or participate in meetings with hotel staff and clients, including but not exclusive to Morning Operations Briefing, Morning CS Briefing, Resume Meeting, Banquet Event Order Meeting, Sales Meeting, Pre-Convention Meetings, Menu Tastings, and Planning Site Visits.

• Identify new markets and business opportunities in the local community to develop relationships and drive sales.

• Demonstrates professional and confident communication skills with clients and staff.

• Exhibits a professional demeanor through appearance and by maintaining a positive attitude toward all employees and guests. 

• Implements all sales action plans related to market areas as outlined in the marketing plan.

• Executes and supports the operational aspects of business booked (e.g., generating a proposal, writing contract, customer correspondence).

• Provide the highest quality of service to the customer at all times.

• Develops relationships within the community to strengthen and expand customer base for sales opportunities.

• Closely following up on all business leads within a 24-hour response timeline to clients.

•  Perform other duties as directed, developed, or assigned.

Qualifications

• Proven success in a similar role, prefer four years of Catering, Event & Wedding experience in a luxury market.

• Experience in hotels / resorts or event planning is required.

Additional Information

Auberge Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences, and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine and spas, and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With hotels and resorts across three continents, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. Please visit aubergeresorts.com to learn more about our Collection. 

4100 Red River Holdings LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. 4100 Red River Holdings LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all team members and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, 4100 Red River Holdings LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.