Director of Groups & Events

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From the very first opening of the St. Regis New York, St. Regis has stood as a symbol of uncompromising elegance and bespoke service. As the original house of luxury, St. Regis continues to redefine modern luxury through great service. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi merges authentic Arabian hospitality with more than a hundred years of bespoke St. Regis tradition.

Crafted for modern connoisseurs who desire exceptional experiences, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is the social epicenter for royalty, discerning travelers and luminaries in the art of living. The hotel comprises of 283 elegantly appointed guest rooms including 55 suites, most of which boast breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and Abu Dhabi city, including the extraordinary Abu Dhabi Suite – the highest suspended suite in the world, connecting the two Nation Towers.

The St. Regis is part of Marriott International, a brand leader, offering the most powerful portfolio in the industry, our more than 30 leading brands and nearly 9,100 properties in 142 countries and territories give people more ways to connect, experience and expand their world. At the heart of The St. Regis, our exceptional staff whom we address as "Hosts," are the ultimate luxury ambassadors, dedicated to providing our guests with an exquisite stay and unforgettable experiences. Pursue your passion and grow your expertise at Abu Dhabi’s best address—The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, the house of luxury who is awarded with the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Rating.

POSITION PURPOSE

Oversees the functions of Groups & Events Management, including the departments of Event Planning, Event Service and Event Technology (Destination Management, if applicable). Position ensures implementation of the brand service strategy and brand initiatives. The position has overall responsibility for executing all property events with a seamless turnover from sales to operations and back to sales. Manages also all rooms aspects of assigned groups and uses discretion and judgement in dealing with group contacts, both on the phone and in an operational environment, including any contractual obligations. Manages the receipt and entry of each group rooming list prior to or by the proposed deadline outlined in the contract, verifying, documenting and releasing any unused room or attraction inventory back for general sale. Ensures the team meets the brand’s target customer needs, ensures employee satisfaction, focuses on growing event revenues and maximizes the financial performance of the department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Managing Event Management Operations and Budgets

Researches and analyses new products, pricing and services of competition.

Works with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts.

Ensures the property is apprised of all groups that will impact property operations.

Works with culinary team to ensure compliance with food handling and sanitation standards.

Oversees Event Operations including Banquets, Event Services and Event Technology.

Oversees event planning team (BEO/Resume writers).

Ensures meeting space and corresponding heart of the house areas are cleaned and maintained..

Leads the execution of brand service initiatives in event management areas.

Develops a Groups & Event Management strategy that is aligned with the brand’s business strategy and leads its execution.

Managing Group Operations

Manages the operational preparation for all group bookings, including guest deposits, mini hotels, room blocks, rooming list, cut-off dates, waitlist, overflow accommodations, rooming requests, contact relationships and ticketing needs.

Checks for accuracy on all booking sheets, contracts to verify that they are in accordance with operational guidelines (e.g., availability, rate structure, and operating procedures, such as deadlines for deposits, rooming list).

Maintains organized, accurate files on each group account and monitors of the course of action for each account daily.

Provides various reports and communications to Sales, Front Office and Accounting.

Acts as primary Rooms Division contact in advance planning meeting, communicating all pertinent information to the Rooms Division, Revenue Management, and Accounting.

Manages the receipt and entry of each group rooming list prior to or by the proposed deadline outlined in the contract, verifying, documenting and releasing any unused room or attraction inventory back for general sale.

Attends Pre-Convention Meetings, Bill Reviews and site visits for assigned groups.

Manages all rooms aspects of assigned groups and uses discretion and judgement in dealing with group contacts, both on the phone and in an operational environment, including any contractual obligations.

Leading Event Management Teams

Sets expectations and holds groups and event management leadership team accountable for desired service behaviors' related to product and service delivery.

Communicates a clear and consistent message regarding departmental goals to produce desired results.

Identifies key drivers of business success and keeps team focused on the critical few to achieve results.

Ensures integration of departmental goals in game plans.

Ensures brand and regional business initiatives are implemented and communicates follow-up actions to team as necessary.

Managing Profitability

Encourages calculated risk-taking to generate incremental revenue and deliver excellent guest service.

Works directly with major groups when high profile and financial impact will be significant (limited instances).

Develops working relationships with outside vendors and establishes prices and service agreements to enhance the event experience and to increase additional revenue opportunities for the property.

Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service

Creates an atmosphere in all groups and event management operations areas that meets or exceeds guest expectations.

Consult with customers in order to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences, and conventions.

Reviews and responds to results of Event Satisfaction Survey.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

Education & Experience

Required:

High school diploma or GED; 4 years experience in the event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.

OR

2-year degree from an accredited university in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related major; 2 years of experience in the Groups and Events field, including experience as a Director of Groups and Events.

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.