The Kensington Hotel has an opening for an experienced Convention Services Manager!  We offer a wonderful benefits package with a generous bonus plan, Medical insurances, 401k w/ match, LTD, STD, and life insurance.   A typical schedule is Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm, weekends as necessary.  

Overall responsible for planning, organizing and managing the in-house details for all groups and University of Michigan catering only programs. Focuses on the execution of all aspects of event planning including coordination from BEOS, VIP needs, amenities, group resumes, and rooming lists.

Responsibilities:

· Serve the on-site group and catering customers in a proactive manner, working with the logistics of group room blocks, food and beverage, meeting space and the billing process. After turnover is completed, CSM is the key point of contact for detailing, planning, day of execution and post event billing.

· Review sales contracts as well as other important information, (i.e. room block cut off, special concessions and attrition clauses) and validate with client via turnover letter.

· Responsible for prompt handling (within the business day) of incoming calls and monitoring the efficient flow of paperwork relative to confirming function details to the client.

· Consults with representatives of client group or organization to plan details such as number of persons expected display space desired and food service schedule.

· Have demonstrated knowledge with the ability to upsell clients while promoting a level of service equal to the stature of the facility.

· Creates, reviews and distributes weekly group resumes and BEOs for all upcoming bookings in the next 14 days. Responsible for the overall accuracy and completion of these documents, as noted in the standard policies and procedures for Graham Hotels.

· Maintains & logs all client communications in Opera. It is the responsibility of the Convention Services Manager to use Opera Cloud to keep in touch with clients through phone calls, emails, letters and personal meetings.

· Accurately forecast group rooms and group food & beverage revenues for assigned groups and affiliated business.

· Maintain GRC log audit monthly for accuracy and update accordingly for booking status per Sales Manager

· Plans coordinates and implements special events and other meetings conferences and special projects.

· May be expected to perform initial contract negotiations and vendor service agreements up sell food and beverage

· Attend weekly internal meetings as dictated.

· Ensure changes are communicated timely to impacted departments/operations leaders.

· Works directly with Banquets and AV per clients’ needs.

· Coordinates and organizes Pre and Post Cons

· Inspects rooms and displays for conformance to needs and desires of group.

· Displays leadership in guest hospitality, exemplifies excellent customer service and creates a positive atmosphere for guest relations.

· Conduct hotel site inspections and client presentations.

· Must have prior experience in the hospitality industry and/or a bachelor's degree in hospitality management or a related field.

· Must be proficient in Windows operating system and Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Opera helpful

· Must be willing to “pitch-in” and help co- workers with their job duties and be a team player.

· Ability to prepare moderately complex mathematical calculations without error.

· Ability to effectively deal with customers, with high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy through negotiations and problem resolution

· Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and customers.

· Ability to access and accurately input information using a moderately complex computer system.

· Must have the ability to communicate in English.

· Maintain a professional appearance and manner at all times.