Assistant Catering Sales Manager

JOB SUMMARY

The Assistant Catering Sales Manager is responsible for the propertys strategic and proactive catering sales efforts at Al Maha a Luxury Collection Desert Resort. The position is responsible for achieving catering revenue goals guest and associate satisfaction and implements the brands service strategy and applicable brand initiatives in all aspects of the sales process. The position focuses on building long-term value-based customer relationships that enable achievement of the hotels catering sales objectives. The position has ultimate accountability for driving optimization of catering revenue opportunities by upselling and accurately forecasting revenues (catering) for all events whilst contributing market feedback to facilitate key decisions on Catering Strategy.

SCOPE / BUSINESS CONTEXT

A Full Time/Part Time position based at the Al Maha a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa.

Number of Direct Reports - 0

Titles of Direct Reports 0

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Experience:

1 year experience in the sales and marketing or related professional area.

Previously a Sales Executive in 4/5 star hotel.

Experience of selling in catering segment is desirable but not essential.

Marriott sales experience is desirable but not essential.

Handling catering business is essential.

Skills and Knowledge:

Aggressive negotiating skills and creative selling abilities to close on business with a high conversion ratio.

Possesses software knowledge (Microsoft Office etc..)

Possesses systems knowledge (OPERA Sales & Catering).

Must be able to Knock on doors to get the business.

Knows how to conduct research on the Internet.

Weekly prospecting and soliciting goals.

Uncovering new customers (local and social).

Effective sales skills to up-sell products and services.

Ability to manage guest room and meeting space inventories.

Broad understanding of facility management (sanitation maintenance operations).

Strong customer development and relationship management skills.

Knowledge of overall hotel operations as they affect department.

Knowledge of Event Technology products and services.

Knowledge of contract management and legalities.

Strong communication skills (verbal listening writing) Assistant Catering Sales Manager Job Description Marriott International Incorporated Page 2 Confidential and Proprietary.

Strong problem-solving skills.

Strong customer and associate relation skills.

Strong presentation and platform skills.

Strong organization skills.

Strong Closing skills.

Strong persuasion skills.

Effective decision-making skills.

Education or Certification

2-year degree from an accredited university in Business Administration Marketing Hotel and Restaurant Management or related major; 4 years experience in the sales and marketing or related professional area; OR

4-year bachelors degree in business administration Marketing Hotel and Restaurant Management.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

The following are specific responsibilities and contributions critical to the successful performance of the position:

1. Lead Generation & Prospecting

Proactively seek new business opportunities through research networking and outreach to potential clients in key markets including corporate groups travel agencies event planners and high-net-worth individuals.

Build and maintain a healthy sales pipeline by identifying and qualifying leads initiating contact and securing appointments to discuss event opportunities and group bookings.

Attend industry events and networking functions building connections with key stakeholders potential clients and industry influencers to promote Al Mahas offerings.

2. Client Relationship Management

Establish and nurture long-term relationships with potential clients becoming a trusted advisor for their catering needs.

Respond to inquiries quickly and professionally ensuring prompt and personalized service to build rapport and trust with potential clients while coordinating with the Events Booking Centre to ensure seamless communication and follow-up on all event-related inquiries.

Conduct regular follow-up communications (via email phone calls meetings) to maintain relationships and keep Al Maha top of mind for future event opportunities.

3. Sales Presentations & Negotiations

Conduct personalized sales presentations to potential clients clearly communicating the unique catering offerings of Al Maha to differentiate the resort from competitors.

Utilize strong negotiation skills to close deals ensuring mutually beneficial terms while maximizing revenue and aligning with Al Mahas objectives.

4. Market & Competitive Analysis

Monitor market trends competitor offerings and industry developments to understand pricing dynamics customer preferences and emerging opportunities.

Adjust sales strategies based on market shifts and competitive activity to stay ahead of the competition and ensure Al Mahas offerings remain compelling. Assistant Catering Sales Manager Job Description Marriott International Incorporated Page 3 Confidential and Proprietary

5. Sales Target Achievement

Meet and exceed sales targets for catering events and day packages at Al Maha by driving proactive efforts in prospecting follow-ups and deal closures.

Utilize CRM tools and sales systems to track performance against goals manage customer information and forecast future bookings to ensure consistent revenue growth.

6. Marketing Collaboration

Collaborate with the marketing team to design and implement targeted sales campaigns and promotions aimed at generating leads especially during low-demand periods or off-season times.

Contribute to digital marketing initiatives by providing insights and materials for website updates brochures and promotional content that highlight Al Mahas offerings.

7. Upselling & Cross-selling

Actively upsell additional services to maximize revenue opportunities such as premium accommodations exclusive spa packages desert experiences etc.

Cross-sell resort services to existing clients including expanding bookings into multiple events or securing repeat business through tailored offers and loyalty incentives.

8. Client Feedback & Continuous Improvement

Collect feedback from clients after events to identify areas for improvement and ensure that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly.

Utilize client insights to refine sales strategies offerings and service delivery ensuring continuous improvement in customer satisfaction and service excellence.

9. Sales Reporting & Analysis

Maintain detailed records of sales activities and client interactions in SFA.

Analyze sales data regularly including lead conversion rates revenue generation and sales cycle duration to identify opportunities for process improvement and more efficient sales tactics.

10. Team Collaboration

Work closely with the catering and operations teams to ensure seamless coordination between sales and event execution guaranteeing a high level of service and guest satisfaction.

Support the broader sales team in sharing best practices participating in team meetings and coordinating with each Head of Department to ensure alignment and effective account management.