Director of Catering and Events - Conrad Washington DC
Set in the dynamic heart of Washington, D.C., Conrad Washington DC is the ultimate destination for unforgettable events, from board meetings and fundraisers to conferences and galas. With 32,000 square feet of contemporary meeting and event space featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, abundant natural light, and sweeping city views, our venues set the stage for excellence. Highlights include two pillar-free ballrooms with soaring 17-foot ceilings and a breathtaking rooftop space. We’re seeking a visionary Director of Catering and Events to lead our world-class team, crafting extraordinary experiences and delivering flawless execution in one of the city’s most sophisticated settings.
What will I be doing?
As Director of Catering & Events you will provide continuous leadership in creating and delivering an exceptional team member experience and best place to work. The Director of Catering & Events will be directly responsible for contributing to the achievement of superior business results in the areas of ensuring outstanding guest service, team member engagement, favorable financial outcomes, strategic leadership and talent development, culture, innovation, and event operations.
Specifically, your essential functions will be to perform the following tasks to the highest standards:
STRATEGY:
• Successfully, innovatively, and timely implement Commercial strategic initiatives and monitor for best-in-class results
• Drive innovation and creativity within event delivery
• Partner with the General Manager/Executive Committee to deliver on Hilton’s values by creating high-impact event experiences
• Ensure that high quality service standards are maintained through continuous reviews of processes and procedures
• Provide owner relations guidance in key areas of Events & Catering expertise, as needed (Banquet Capital Expenditures, Staffing Models)
• Actively support the sales process.
LEADERSHIP:
• Provide overall leadership and direction in all Events & Catering matters.
• Serve as the hotel’s credible Subject Matter Expert on all matters relating to event & catering experience
• Serve as a highly visible, participatory leader who proactively and consistently engages with their General Manager/Executive Committee, Sales, Catering and Events team members, external guests, and suppliers
• Remain current on event trends to evaluate innovative ways for process/practice improvements and shares best practices
• Participate or represent Hilton in industry social/meeting/events professional associations
CULTURE:
• Inspire high-performing multi-cultural, multi-generational teams that build Hilton’s Events talent pipeline
• Integrate Hilton’s Values/Mission/Purpose when implementing Event initiatives and support Team Member-centric and guest-centric programs
• Lead with Hilton culture engaging with Team Members through direct and meaningful interactions
• Be an ambassador for customer service.
TALENT:
• Motivate and provide a work environment in which team members are productive
• Ensure all Event & Catering manager roles have career development plans in place that are actively supported by leadership and profiles are current for succession planning
• Listen and respond to team members needs while having an open-door policy
• Manage group and interpersonal conflict effectively
OPERATIONS EXCELLENCE:
• Ensure the proper use of all function space, exhibit hall, and event spaces
• Manage supplier and vendor relationships
• Possess subject matter expertise and ensure standards/practices
• Development and management of departmental budgets
• Responsible for the overseeing short, medium, and long-term forecasting and actual cost reporting for events and catering
• Ensure proper staffing for the needs of the business
• Integrate current trends in event management and design
• Participate in customer site inspections and assists with the sales process as necessary
About Conrad Washington, DC:
A beacon of modern luxury in the heart of the nation’s capital, Conrad Washington, DC, redefines sophistication with its innovative design and unparalleled service. Nestled in the vibrant City Center DC, the hotel offers a refined urban oasis for discerning travelers and event planners alike.
With 360 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each designed to provide comfort and style, the Conrad experience is nothing short of exceptional.
- Over 30,000 square feet of flexible event space that includes a stunning outdoor terrace and state-of-the-art ballroom, ideal for hosting unforgettable events.
- Elevated dining experiences, including Estuary by Top Chef finalists Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, offering locally inspired flavors.
- Steps from iconic landmarks like the White House and National Mall, providing guests with access to the best of Washington, DC.
What are we looking for?
• Minimum Years of Experience: Two (2) years Hospitality related experience at an Assistant or Director level
• Luxury Experience Preferred
• Other requirements: Travel percentage: 10%
It would be advantageous in this position for you to demonstrate the following capabilities and distinctions:
• Knowledge of the hotel property management systems (Delphi.fdc)
• Significant experience in revenue management or a similar analytical role
• Relevant degree, in business development or other relevant business field, from an academic institution (CMP, CPCE)
Since being founded in 1919, Hilton has been a leader in the hospitality industry. Today, Hilton remains a beacon of innovation, quality, and success. This continued leadership is the result of our Team Members staying true to our Vision, Mission, and Values.
Specifically, we look for demonstration of these Values:
· Hospitality - We're passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences.
· Integrity - We do the right thing, all the time.
· Leadership - We're leaders in our industry and in our communities.
· Teamwork - We're team players in everything we do.
· Ownership - We're the owners of our actions and decisions.
· Now - We operate with a sense of urgency and discipline
· Quality
· Productivity
· Dependability
· Customer Focus
· Adaptability
What will it be like to work for Hilton?
Hilton is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For nearly a century, Hilton has offered business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. Hilton is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Our vision “to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality” unites us as a team to create remarkable hospitality experiences around the world every day. And, our amazing Team Members are at the heart of it all!
The Benefits – Hilton is proud to have an award-winning workplace culture ranking #2 Best Company To Work For in the U.S. We support the mental and physical wellbeing of all Team Members so they can Thrive personally and professionally in a diverse and inclusive environment, thanks to innovative programs and benefits. Hilton offers its eligible team members a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Medical Insurance Coverage – for you and your family
- Mental health resources including Employee Assistance Program
- Best-in-Class Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Go Hilton travel program: 100 nights of discounted travel
- Parental leave to support new parents
- 401K plan and company match to help save for your retirement
- Employee stock purchase program (ESPP) - purchase Hilton shares at 15% discount
- Debt-free education: Team Members will have access to a wide variety of educational credentials through our partnership with Guild Education, including: college degrees and professional certifications*
- Career growth and development
- Recognition and rewards programs
- This position is eligible to participate in Hilton’s Sales Incentive Program
*Available benefits may vary depending upon property-specific terms and conditions of employment and the terms of the collective bargaining agreement if applicable.
The annual salary range for this role is $135,000.00 - $150,000.00 and is based on applicable and specialized experience and location.