Director of Event Planning

Job Number 24120745Job Category Event ManagementLocation Marriott Marquis Chicago, 2121 South Prairie Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, United StatesSchedule Full-TimeLocated Remotely? NRelocation? YPosition Type ManagementJOB SUMMARYManages event planning functions and staff on a daily basis. Core area of responsibility is the event planning team, including the Senior Event Managers, Event Managers, Associate Event Managers and Administrative Assistants. Position oversees the administrative processes associated with the pre-event and post-event phases of an event and the associated transitions between all event phases. Ensures a seamless turnover from sales to operations and back to sales while consistently delivering a high level of service. Ensures the team maximizes revenue opportunities by up-selling and accurately forecasting (catering and group rooms) all events. The position is responsible for achieving guest and employee satisfaction and for managing the financial performance of the department.CANDIDATE PROFILEEducation and Experience High school diploma or GED; 4 years experience in the event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.OR 2-year degree from an accredited university in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related major; 2 years experience in the event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.CORE WORK ACTIVITIESManaging Event Planning Operations Assigns all events turned over to Event Planning team. Oversees for turned opportunities’ function space and group room blocks. Communicates and executes departmental and property emergency procedures and ensures staff are trained in safety procedures. Leads execution of activities to support the Event Management strategy. Works with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts. Leads discussions to review event complexity and proactively avoid service challenges and failures. Ensures the property is apprised of all groups that will impact property operations. Manages customer budgets to maximize revenue and meet customer needs. Maintains inventories to maximize customer satisfaction and revenue opportunities. Works with highly complex or high profile groups when financial impact will be significant.Leading Event Planning Team Leads the catering menu development process. Champions all standards, policies and procedures for the Event Planning team. Leads Event Management meetings.Providing and Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service Reviews comment cards, guest satisfaction results and other data to identify areas of improvement. Shares plans with property leadership and ensures corrective action is taken to continuously improve guest satisfaction. Displays leadership in guest hospitality, exemplifies excellent customer service and creates a positive atmosphere for guest relations. Interacts with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels. Responds to and handles guest problems and complaints. Strives to improve service performance. Empowers employees to provide excellent customer service.Managing the Sales and Marketing Strategy Develops working relationships with outside vendors and establishes prices and service agreements to enhance the event experience and to increase additional revenue opportunities for the property. Consult with customers in order to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences, and conventions.Conducting Human Resources Activities Establishes customer service guidelines so employees understand expectations and parameters. Ensures employees receive on-going training to understand guest expectations. Observes service behaviors of employees and provides feedback to individuals and or managers. Reviews staffing levels to ensure that guest service and planning needs are met.The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $150,000 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.Marriott Hotels strive to elevate the art of hospitality, innovating at every opportunity while keeping the comfort of the oh-so-familiar all around the globe. As a host with Marriott Hotels, you will help keep the promise of “Wonderful Hospitality. Always.” by delivering thoughtful, heartfelt, forward-thinking service that upholds and builds upon this living legacy. With the name that’s synonymous with hospitality the world over, we are proud to welcome you to explore a career with Marriott Hotels. In joining Marriott Hotels, 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.JW Marriott is part of Marriott International's luxury portfolio and consists of more than 100 beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW believes our associates come first. Because if you’re happy, our guests will be happy. JW Marriott associates are confident, innovative, genuine, intuitive, and carry on the legacy of the brand’s namesake and company founder, J.Willard Marriott. Our hotels offer a work experience unlike any other, where you’ll be part of a community and enjoy true camaraderie with a diverse group of co-workers. JW creates opportunities for training, development, recognition and most importantly, a place where you can pursue your passions in a luxury environment with a focus on holistic well-being. Treating guests exceptionally starts with the way we take care of our associates. That’s The JW Treatment™. In joining JW Marriott, 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.