Director of Catering

Sofitel Chicago Water Tower provides 4-star downtown Chicago hotel. Designed by the French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, our downtown Chicago Illinois hotel is a 32-floor prism of glass, boasting 415 rooms, including 33 luxurious suites. Embrace modern design and rich architectural legacy at one of the best downtown Chicago Illinois hotels

We have an exciting career opportunity with an outstanding team in downtown Chicago. We are currently looking for a dynamic leader to direct the efforts of our talented Catering Team!

As the Director of Catering, you are responsible for achieving budgeted revenue for Food & Beverage Banqueting Sales for the calendar year. You will work closely with clients in all aspects during their planning stages, as well as onsite coordination for upcoming conferences, to include the preparation and distribution of all necessary paperwork. Administer all phases of the banquet department, including, but not limited to, sales, planning, marketing, servicing and administrative procedures.  Prepare, implement and compile data for strategic sales plan, annual goals, forecasts and other reports as directed and/or required.  Develop banquet menus pricing and revenue minimums using current competitive data.  Direct, manage, train and counsel catering sales and convention services.

The Director of Catering will work closely with the Banquet Managers and their team to create and ensure quality levels are being met on a daily basis as well as enhancing overall banquet set-ups.

In addition, you are responsible for the overall Catering Sales standards including supervision of two Conference Services Managers and one Catering Assistant. Areas of emphasis include completion of revenue/accounting reports, payroll, on-going training of staff, and other administrative duties.

We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and an aggressive incentive program.

Requirements:

- Computer literate in Word, Excel and Delphi, Fidelo programs
- Individual must be detail oriented
- Exhibit a positive, winning attitude!
- Overall knowledge of food and beverage items and operations
- Understanding of basic food cost and payroll cost control
- Negotiation skills
- Overall understanding of Catering/Conference Services