Director of Event Planning - Davenport HotelsID2023-6126CategorySales & Marketing/EventsPosition TypeRegular Full-TimeProperty DescriptionThe Historic Davenport Hotel, Autograph Collection is a prestigious, iconic hotel located in Spokane, Washington, offering exciting job opportunities for hospitality professionals seeking to be part of a historic and renowned team. Joining our team means becoming part of a renowned hospitality brand known for its commitment to exceptional guest service and unmatched elegance. The hotel boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and luxurious amenities, making it a sought-after destination for both business and leisure travelers. As a team member, you will have the opportunity to work in a unique and historic environment, providing outstanding service to guests from all over the world. The Historic Davenport Hotel values professional growth and development, offering opportunities for advancement within the organization. Join our team and be part of a rewarding and fulfilling career in the hospitality industry, where your skills and dedication will be recognized and rewarded in a truly special setting.OverviewThe Director of Event Sales & Planning is responsible for coordinating catering sales by establishing markets, goals and advertising techniques; coordinating with the Director of Sales to ensure profitable bookings; manage pricing policy of the property, ensuring proper payments for services rendered; developing and maintaining solicitation responsibilities; reviewing catering contracts; selecting, training and developing Team Members.QualificationsBachelor's degree or equivalent experience.* 5+ years of progressive catering experience, hotel preferred.* Confident and professional appearance.* Highly developed business communication skills, both written and verbal.* Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.* Strong negotiation skills.* Experience with major Hospitality Sales CRM system, i.e. Delphi, Daylight and/or brand CRM such as Marriott CI/TY or Starwood ISAC is preferred.* Execute and support Hotel Customer Service Standards and Hotel's Brand Standards.* Strong understanding of negotiation and interpretation of contracts.* Demonstrate leadership skills at all levels of the hotel as well as externally.* Understand and have a working knowledge of statistical data (Star Report, P&L, expense sheets, competitive pricing analysis).* Proven ability to forecast top line revenues.* Prior experience with creation and execution of a Sales and Marketing Plan to reach desired goals.* Conflict management skills.* Time management skills. Being able to work on multiple projects with desired outcome for each.* Ability to direct/motivate catering department to meet and exceed goals.* Ability to communicate effectively with public, employees and ownership teams.* Ability to meet all deadlines internally and externally every time.* Creativity in designing events.* Comprehensive knowledge of banquet department (sets, AV equipment, scheduling, menu planning).* Ability to design menus in conjunction with the culinary department to maximize operating profit.BenefitsDavidson Hospitality Group is an award-winning, full-service hospitality management company overseeing hotels, restaurants, dining and entertainment venues across the US. A trusted partner and preferred operator for Hilton, Hyatt, Kimpton, Marriott, and Margaritaville, Davidson offers a unique entrepreneurial management style and owners' mentality that provides the individualized personal service of a small company, enhanced by the breadth and depth of skill and experience of a larger company. In keeping with the company's heritage of de