Sales Managers-Group & Catering Sales

ABOUT WARWICK HOTELS AND RESORTS

Warwick Hotels and Resorts is a refined collection of more than 50 luxury hotels and resorts around the world – from New York to Paris, Geneva to Bali, and Barcelona to Bangkok. All of our sumptuous hotels can be found in prime locations in some of the world’s finest business and leisure destinations.

Launched in 1980, Warwick Hotels and Resorts offers a unique collection of luxury hotels that boast a warm welcome and opulent ambiance throughout the world. Known for our quality and unique sense of style, Warwick Hotels and Resorts offers guests, who are looking for out of this world travel experiences, the perfect balance of quality, authenticity, luxury standards, and prime location.

We are proud of our passion, our people, and our commitment of delivering the ultimate hotel experience.

HOTEL SALES MANAGER FOR GROUP AND CATERING SALES

Solicit group business that enables the hotel to meet and/or exceed revenue goals in rooms and food and beverage.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions of the Group Sales Manager typically focus on driving group business to the hotel and managing relationships with group clients. Key responsibilities include:

• Sales and Business Development

  • Identify, solicit, and secure group business, including corporate meetings, events, conventions, and weddings.
  • Develop sales strategies to target key group segments (e.g., corporate, association, SMERF).
  • Conduct market research to stay informed on industry trends and competitor activities.
  • Create and deliver compelling sales presentations to prospective clients.

• Client Relationship Management

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and expectations.
  • Serve as the primary contact for group clients, coordinating pre-event and post-event services.
  • Ensure high levels of client satisfaction, addressing any concerns promptly and effectively.

• Contract Negotiation and Management

  • Negotiate contracts, including room rates, meeting spaces, food & beverage, and additional services.
  • Ensure contracts are aligned with hotel policies and revenue goals.
  • Manage contract fulfillment and ensure that terms are met by both parties.

• Revenue Generation

  • Develop and implement strategies to maximize revenue from group bookings.
  • Collaborate with the Revenue Management and Sales teams to optimize pricing and inventory control.
  • Track and report sales metrics and meet or exceed revenue targets.

• Event Coordination

  • Collaborate with the events team to ensure seamless execution of group bookings, including room blocks, meetings, catering, and logistics.
  • Communicate client needs and ensure all details are handled professionally.

• Networking and Partnerships

  • Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to promote the hotel and build business.
  • Develop partnerships with local businesses, vendors, and event planners to increase group sales opportunities.

• Reporting and Analysis

  • Track group sales performance metrics and provide regular reports to hotel leadership.
  • Analyze group sales trends to adjust strategies and improve overall performance.

• Team Collaboration

  • Work closely with the hotel's marketing, operations, and revenue management teams to align group sales efforts with overall hotel objectives.
  • Provide leadership and guidance to other team members involved in the sales process.

• These responsibilities contribute directly to the financial health and operational success of the hotel, with the Group Sales Manager playing a vital role in driving occupancy, revenue, and long-term client relationships.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Marketing, or a related field is often preferred.
• Equivalent work experience in sales or hospitality may be considered in lieu of a degree.

2. Experience

• 3-5 years of sales experience in the hotel or hospitality industry, with a focus on group sales.
• Proven track record of success in selling group events (e.g., corporate meetings, weddings, conventions).
• Experience in contract negotiation and event coordination.
• Familiarity with Seattle’s market, including corporate, social, military, educational, religious, and fraternal (SMERF) group segments is a strong advantage.

3. Skills

• Sales Acumen: Ability to create and implement sales strategies, identify target markets, and close deals.
• Client Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build and maintain relationships with group clients.
• Negotiation Skills: Expertise in negotiating contracts, room blocks, catering services, and event logistics.
• Organizational Skills: Detail-oriented with excellent time management to handle multiple group bookings simultaneously.
• Presentation Skills: Ability to create and deliver compelling sales presentations to prospective clients.
• Revenue Management: Understanding of how to maximize revenue through strategic pricing and effective inventory management.
• Familiarity with Event Management Tools: Experience using software like Opera, CVENT, or similar CRM and sales management tools.

4. Knowledge

• Seattle’s hospitality and event market: Familiarity with local demand generators, businesses, and seasonal trends.
• Knowledge of hotel operations and how group sales interact with other departments (catering, rooms, operations).
• Financial Acumen: Ability to create sales reports, track KPIs, and meet or exceed revenue targets.

5. Certifications (Optional)

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP), or similar certifications can be advantageous but are not always required.

6. Other Requirements

• Flexibility to travel for sales calls, trade shows, and networking events.
• Ability to work non-traditional hours, including weekends, as group events may require presence at the hotel.

These qualifications help ensure that the Group Sales Manager can drive revenue, manage relationships, and create successful group experiences at a hotel in Seattle.