Director of Event Sales & Services

Company Description

Centrally located in downtown Calgary, Fairmont Palliser is the city’s premier, landmark hotel. With 407 elegantly appointed guest rooms, Fairmont Palliser is truly the place to be.

Join us in delivering the iconic Calgary experience.

Job Description

Director of Event Sales & Services

The Director of Event Sales & Services will spearhead a vibrant team dedicated to delivering flawless events both within Fairmont Palliser and at off-site locations.

With a focus on excellence, they will oversee a wide range of events, from annual gatherings to prestigious conferences, weddings, and intimate meetings, aiming to surpass projected revenue targets while ensuring seamless execution and client satisfaction.

• Oversees all Event Sales (Local and Group)
• Manages Local and Group Markets assigned including Key Accounts from initial booking to execution.
• Handle protocol-related activities and VIP visits.
• Further to function bookings - prepares event contracts and distribute conference agendas and prepares event orders.
• Conduct site inspections and food tastings with prospective and repeat customers to understand and exceed guest needs.
• Prepare departmental budget and forecasts, ensuring effective cost control within set parameters.
• Establish and maintain rapport with clients throughout the event process, exceeding their expectations and encouraging repeat business.
• Work closely with the Director of Sales and Marketing to prepare monthly forecasts and review performance metrics.
• Control function space utilization and ensure the Fairmont standards are met.
• Develop annual business and marketing plans for the department in collaboration with the Director of Sales and Marketing.
• Ensures proper maintenance of meeting and function rooms is communicated.
• Coordinates with Reservations and Client Flow with Food and Beverage outlets.
• Maintains compliance with Health and Safety standards and company "Sustainability" initiatives.
• Participates in relevant meetings within the hotel and the local community, representing the Event Sales and Services areas.
• Maximize employee satisfaction through monthly and annual performance reviews and training coordination.
• Conduct periodic departmental audits to ensure adherence to core standards.
• Implement policies and procedures to ensure the successful transition of group requirements and exceed budgeted revenues.
• Actively seek new business and catering events through prospecting to meet revenue targets.
• Set goals and activities with Sales and Services Managers, conducting regular meetings to review event activities and goals.
• Collaborate with Sales Managers to ensure contractual terms are met and function space is maximized.
• Liaise with in-house AV supplier to maximize audiovisual revenues.
• Develop and lead a motivated, competent, and cohesive team through incentive and performance management programs.
• Administer the department budget in a fiscally responsible manner and manage the hiring and training of new team members.
• Balance operational, administrative, and colleague needs while following all safety policies.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Hotel Catering / Event Management or Sales Management, demonstrating a strong understanding of hospitality industry dynamics and customer service principles.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully planning and executing events, preferably in diverse settings such as corporate, non-profit, or academic environments.
• Ability to prioritize guest needs, maintaining composure and professionalism in all interactions, while ensuring exceptional service delivery.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to liaise with clients, vendors, sponsors, and internal stakeholders, ensuring seamless coordination and collaboration throughout the event planning process.
• Proven track record of planning and executing events with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring seamless logistics and memorable experiences for attendees.
• Proficiency in Sales & Catering software, Property Manager Systems (preferably Opera Cloud), and Windows-based applications, enabling efficient management of event operations and client relationships.
• CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) certification is required, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge and expertise in event management practices and industry standards.
• Extensive experience in Food & Beverage operations, with a broad understanding of culinary and service aspects, enhancing the quality and execution of event catering offerings.
• A degree in Hotel / Restaurant Management or a related discipline is considered an asset, providing a solid foundation in hospitality management principles and best practices.
• Genuine passion for the events industry and a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences that exceed client expectations and contribute to the overall success of the organization.
• Innovative mindset to conceptualize unique event ideas, themes, and experiences that engage attendees and leave a lasting impression.

Additional Information

What is in it for you :

• Employee benefit card offering discounted rates in Accor worldwide
• Learning programs through our Academies
• Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world!
• Ability to make a difference through our Corporate Social Responsibility activities, like Planet 21

Your team and working environment :

• Must be legally eligible to work in Canada. The hotel is unable to assist candidates in obtaining Canadian work authorization.
• Fairmont Palliser is committed to an employment equity program that includes special measures to achieve diversity among staff.

Do what you love, care for the world, dare to challenge the status quo! #BELIMITLESS