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Valor Hospitality

Convention Services/Catering Manager

Valor Hospitality, Guntersville, AL, United States


THE LODGE AT GULF STATE PARK

Nestled within the pristine beauty of Gulf State Park, The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, offers an unparalleled coastal retreat on the shores of Alabama's stunning Gulf Coast. Embracing a sustainable ethos, this eco-friendly oasis seamlessly blends modern luxury with environmental stewardship, providing guests with a unique and unforgettable experience. With direct access to miles of white sandy beaches, lush coastal trails, and diverse ecosystems, guests can immerse themselves in nature's splendor while enjoying world-class amenities and hospitality.

The Lodge features 350 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to reflect the coastal charm and tranquility of the surrounding landscape.. Indulge in exquisite culinary offerings at the hotel's signature restaurant, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and Gulf Coast flavors, or unwind with a refreshing drink at the beachfront bar. With an array of outdoor activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking, as well as a sparkling swimming pool and fitness center, The Lodge at Gulf State Park offers an escape for travelers seeking serenity and adventure along Alabama's enchanting coastline. The Lodge also offers 40,000 square feet of event space.

If you think you bring the ideal blend of skills, attitude and teamwork, sprinkled with a love of the beach and Gulf Shores, this could be the perfect home for you! Are you passionate and creative with a desire to grow? Let's talk! Click here to learn more about what makes the Lodge at Gulf State Park a one-of-a-kind experience on the gulf coast.

THE ROLE

Position: Convention Services/Catering Manager

Reports To: Director of Catering, Director of Convention Services, or Director of Sales and Marketing

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Nestled in the heart of Gulf Shores, AL, The Lodge at Gulf State Park offers a serene and luxurious resort experience where guests can relax, recharge, and enjoy breathtaking views. With a strong focus on exceptional service, we specialize in curating unforgettable experiences, from beachside weddings to high-end corporate retreats. We're seeking an experienced, dynamic, detail-oriented Conference Services Manager to join our team and help craft exceptional events that leave a lasting impression. Ready to elevate your career in this beautiful, high-energy environment? Let's make magic together

POSITION PROFILE:

As our Conference Services Manager, you'll be the heartbeat of event coordination, ensuring that every meeting, conference, and special event runs smoothly from start to finish. You'll work directly with clients to turn their vision into reality, managing everything from room setup to post-event follow-up. Your expertise will ensure the seamless execution of events, creating memorable experiences that keep our guests coming back.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Client Engagement:
    Serve as the go-to person for clients from initial inquiry to event wrap-up. You'll build relationships, understand their goals, and offer personalized solutions for everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences.
  • Event Management:
    Coordinate all event details, including room setups, AV requirements, catering, and decor, while ensuring every detail is perfect. Work alongside internal team members to guarantee flawless execution and a smooth guest experience.
  • Team Collaboration:
    Lead the charge in collaborating with various departments (catering, reservations, housekeeping, AV, front desk, and more) to deliver outstanding service. You'll keep everyone aligned and on the same page, ensuring your client's needs are met without a hitch.
  • Budget and Revenue Management:
    Help our hotel shine by managing event budgets, tracking expenses, forecasting accurately and identifying opportunities to upsell additional services. You'll contribute directly to revenue goals while maintaining client satisfaction.
  • Problem-Solving & Flexibility:
    Stay cool under pressure. If issues arise (and they will), you'll be the calm, solutions-oriented leader who turns challenges into opportunities for improvement.
  • Post-Event Excellence:
    Follow up with clients to ensure satisfaction, gather feedback, and build relationships for repeat business and long-term partnerships.
Who You Are:
  • Experienced:
    You bring at least 2-3 years of experience in event planning, hospitality, or conference services, ideally within a resort or hotel setting. You know how to juggle multiple priorities and always keep your cool.
  • Service-Oriented:
    Your passion for delivering exceptional service is what drives you. You thrive on creating experiences that exceed expectations.
  • Organized & Detail-Obsessed:
    From event orders to timelines, you're on top of every detail. Your organizational skills are second to none.
  • Sales Savvy:
    You understand the importance of both client relationships and revenue generation. Upselling comes naturally to you as you balance client needs with business goals.
  • A Team Player:
    You know that it takes a village. You enjoy collaborating with different teams and maintaining a positive and energetic work environment.
Job Knowledge and Skills:
  • Event Planning Expertise:
    Strong knowledge of event planning principles, including creating event timelines, managing event logistics, and coordinating vendor services such as catering, AV, guestroom block management and decor.
  • Communication Skills:
    Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact with clients, vendors, and internal teams effectively. You know how to clearly articulate client needs and expectations to different stakeholders.
  • Customer Service Excellence:
    Ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism, patience, and tact. You understand how to create memorable guest experiences, ensuring high satisfaction levels.
  • Attention to Detail:
    A keen eye for detail is crucial in event planning. Whether it's a small meeting or a large conference, you ensure all aspects of the event are meticulously planned and executed.
  • Time Management:
    Ability to prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment, ensuring that events run smoothly, and deadlines are met.
  • Technical Proficiency:
    Familiarity with event management software (such as Delphi FDC,Cvent or Social Tables) and general office software (Microsoft Office Suite). Comfort with basic AV equipment and troubleshooting.
  • Sales and Marketing Knowledge:
    Basic understanding of sales principles to assist with event upselling, revenue generation, and promoting the resort's event spaces and services to prospective clients.
Why Join Us?
  • A Vibrant Work Environment:
    Join a team that's passionate, creative, and committed to delivering unforgettable experiences.
  • Amazing Perks:
    Enjoy competitive salary and benefits, including health insurance, wellness programs, and employee discounts on stays and dining at our resort.
  • Career Growth:
    With our ongoing commitment to training and development, you'll have opportunities to grow your career while working in a fun and fast-paced environment.
  • Location, Location, Location:
    Work in one of the most beautiful spots in Gulf Shores, AL, surrounded by nature and luxury. Your daily view might just include sunsets over the Gulf or scenic views of Gulf State Park.
Physical Demands:
  • Standing & Walking:
    This role requires the ability to stand and walk for long periods during event coordination, client meetings, and while monitoring the setup and execution of events.
  • Lifting & Carrying:
    You may need to lift or move event materials, supplies, or equipment, typically up to 25 lbs, and assist in the setup and breakdown of event spaces.
  • Climbing & Reaching:
    Occasional need to climb ladders or reach overhead to assist with the setup of displays, decorations, or equipment.
  • Manual Dexterity:
    Ability to handle event equipment, set up and adjust audio-visual systems, and perform other tasks requiring hand-eye coordination.
  • Fast-Paced Environment:
    This role involves multitasking and working in a dynamic environment, requiring the ability to work efficiently under pressure, especially during peak event times.
BENEFITS PACKAGE
  • Competitive Salary
  • Daily Pay!
  • Team Member Hotel Discount Program
  • Uniforms Provided for most positions
  • Benefits - Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and other supplemental options
  • Paid PTO
  • 401k with employer match
  • Food and Beverage Discounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Please visit http://www.valorhospitality.com to learn more about our existing hotels, other exciting job opportunities and our company.