Groups, Meeting & Events Manager

Additional Information: This hotel is owned and operated by an independent franchisee, Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel. The franchisee is a separate company and a separate employer from Marriott International, Inc. The franchisee solely controls all aspects of the hotel’s employment policies and practices, including hiring, firing, discipline, staffing, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment. If you accept a position at this hotel, you will be employed by a franchisee and not by Marriott International, Inc.

About us:

Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel, a striking Grade II listed iconic building in the vibrant Spinningfields District, offers 148 stylish hotel rooms and suites with modern amenities. The V&A is the home to Chop & Plant, our casual drinking and dining destination, offering a blend of Chop House classics and plant-based dishes with a focus on local produce and sustainability. We have flexible event spaces, including outdoor terrace, small boardrooms and banqueting for up to 200 people.

Our highest priority is making you feel as welcome as our guests. We want you to know you’re important to us and that you’ll make an impact in your role, and for that, you’ll be appreciated and valued.

Key Relationships:

Revenue Manager, Sales, Reservations, Operations, Finance, Guests

Job Scope:

The Meeting Event & Group Manager holds a pivotal role within our organization, entrusted with the comprehensive oversight of Meeting and Events and group bookings. This position is integral to the seamless operation of our hotel, ensuring that all reservations are managed with the utmost precision and efficiency. The individual works with different stakeholders within the organization to maximize conversion and enhance overall guest satisfaction.

This multifaceted role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including but not limited to the meticulous coordination of group and meeting bookings, adherence to brand standards, and facilitation of interdepartmental communication to ensure a cohesive and well-orchestrated operation.

The individual is expected to maintain a high level of professionalism and adaptability, remaining open to the incorporation of new responsibilities and tasks as the needs of the hotel evolve.

In addition to the core duties, the individual is also responsible for fostering a positive and productive work environment, demonstrating exemplary behaviour and presentation at all times. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to both internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Respond promptly to inquiries, providing tailored solutions and working with clients to negotiate terms and pricing.
• Follow & convert the enquiry adhering to the Group & Events procedure, including follow-up calls, show-around, and use of pre-agreed concessions.
• Process contract & deposit as per the schedule and up to the final bill.
• Plan with the customer the event until the day & ensure a thorough handover with the operation team for a seamless experience.
• Maximise the diary availability as per the sales strategy.
• Capitalize and leverage brand tools and resources to maximize the impact of the brand’s contribution.
• Ensure bookings are properly coordinated with other departments, such as Front Desk and Food & Beverage to guarantee smooth operations.
• Identify and proactively reach out to potential group & events clients, including corporate accounts, tour operators, and event planners to generate new business.
• Ensure a high level of product knowledge of this hotel and of competitor set activities.
• Implement targeted sales strategies to increase group and events bookings and revenue.
• Manage relationships with existing clients, ensuring repeat business through excellent service, follow-ups, and custom offers.
• Collaborate with the commercial team to create special offers and packages for group & events bookings, ensuring alignment with the property’s overall sales strategy.
• Create and maintain a database of potential group leads, tracking them for efficient follow-up.
• Collect client feedback to continuously improve client satisfaction.
• Manage client expectations and resolve any issues or challenges that arise during the booking process or stay.
• Share clear handover of these groups to operations for exceptional service.
• Ensure billing is accurate, deposits are paid on time, and invoices are reconciled after the stay.
• Participate in regular meetings with the sales, marketing, revenue, and operations teams to discuss group booking strategies, upcoming events, and any potential challenges.
• Maintain Reservation system up to date.
• Work closely with the Director of Sales and Revenue Manager to ensure that group packages and promotions are effectively communicated to target audiences.
• Represent the hotel at client events, trade shows, and industry conferences to network with potential clients and promote the hotel's group booking services where necessary.
• Stay updated on industry trends, competitor activities, and market demands to adjust sales strategies and maintain a competitive edge.
• Ensure CRM is kept up to date at all times.
• Build a positive environment among the assigned team and colleagues.
• Be an inspiring frontrunner, leading by example, guiding and assisting assigned team in all circumstances.
• Minimize safety hazards by following all safety rules and procedures.
• Adhere to hospitality policies and procedures and verify that the team is doing the same.
• Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Present oneself correctly and represent the company image and values at all times.
• Apply Health & Safety guidelines at all times.
• Perform all duties and responsibilities in a timely and efficient manner, in accordance with established company policies and procedures to achieve the overall objectives for the position.

What we are looking for:

• A warm and genuine individual who enjoys putting people first.
• A strong team player who is willing to be hands-on but also able to work on their own initiative to get things done.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Customer service and quality-focused with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise tasks.
• Experienced in the sales and management of events.
• Someone who wants to grow and develop within the company.

Benefits:

• Meals & refreshments on duty.
• Uniforms.
• Complimentary car parking.
• Bike to work scheme.
• Performance based incentives.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Accommodation and food & beverage discounts across 7,300 Marriott hotels worldwide.
• Recognition programmes.

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.