Senior Events Manager

Additional InformationJob Number 24194068Job Category Event ManagementLocation Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, 301 East North Water Street, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60611VIEW ON MAP (https://www.google.com/maps?q=Sheraton%20Grand%20Chicago%20Riverwalk%2C%20301%20East%20North%20Water%20Street%2C%20Chicago%2C%20Illinois%2C%20United%20States%2C%2060611)Schedule Full TimeLocated Remotely? NPosition Type ManagementJOB SUMMARYPrepares all event documentation and coordinates with Sales, property departments and customer to ensure consistent, high level service throughout the pre-event, event and post-event phases of property events. This position primarily handles complex events. Ensures a seamless turnover from sales to service back to sales. Recognizes opportunities to maximize revenue by up-selling and offering enhancements to create outstanding events. Supports and acts on behalf of the Director of Event Management or Director of Event Planning and Operations in his/her absence. Serves as the event planner’s primary contact (following turnover) on property and is responsible for his/her experience.CANDIDATE PROFILEEducation and Experience High school diploma or GED; 2 years experience in the event management or related professional area.OR 2-year degree from an accredited university in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related major; no work experience required.CORE WORK ACTIVITIESExecuting Event Operations Solve problems and/or suggest alternatives to previous arrangements if necessary. Leads pre-event and post-event meetings for assigned groups. Identifies operational challenges associated with his/her group and works with the property staff and customer to solve these challenges and/or develop alternative solutions. Manages customer budgets to maximize revenue and meet customer needs. Oversees his/her customer experiences from file turnover through the post event phase until turnover back to sales. Conducts pre- and post-event meetings as required to review/communicate group needs and feedback. Manages group room blocks and meeting space for assigned groups. Adheres to all standards, policies, and procedures. Celebrates successes and publicly recognizes the contributions of team members.Executing the Sales and Marketing Strategy Up-sells products and services throughout the event process. Participates in customer site inspections and assists with the sales process when necessary. Acts as liaison between field sales person and customer throughout the event process (pre-event, event, post-event).Managing Profitability Manages revenue and profitability associated with events. Forecasts group sleeping rooms and event revenue (catering and audio-visual) for his/her groups. Reviews billing and payments with clients.Providing Exceptional Customer Service Interacts with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels. Handles guest problems and complaints. Makes presence known to customer at all times during entire event process. Follows up with customer post-event. Greets customer during the event phase and hands-off to the Event Operations team for the execution of details. Strives to improve service performance. Sets a positive example for guest relations. Reviews comment cards and guest satisfaction results with associates. Coordinates and communicates verbally and in writing with customer (internal and external) regarding event details.The salary range for this position is $83,000 to $118,000 annually. Marriott offers a bonus program, comprehensive health care benefits, 401(k) plan with up to 5% company match, employee stock purchase plan at 15% discount, accrued paid time off (including sick leave where applicable), life insurance, group disability insurance, travel discounts, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, health savings account (except for positions based out of or performed in Hawaii), flexible spending accounts, tuition assistance, pre-tax commuter benefits, other life and work wellness benefits, and may include other incentives such as stock awards and deferred compensation plans. Benefits and incentive compensation may be subject to generally applicable eligibility, waiting period, contribution, and other requirements and conditions.The compensation and benefits information is provided as of the date of this posting. Marriott reserves the right to modify compensation and benefits at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.Marriott International is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.When you join the Sheraton family, you become a member of its global community. We’ve been a place to gather and connect since 1937. At Sheraton, associates create a sense of belonging in more than 400 communities around the world. We invite, we welcome, and we connect guests through engaging experiences and thoughtful service. If you’re a team player who is excited to deliver a meaningful guest experience, we encourage you to explore your next career opportunity with Sheraton. Join us on our mission to be ‘The World’s Gathering Place’. In joining Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work,​ begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global​ team, and become the best version of you.