Opportunity Details

A new luxury oceanfront resort in Fort Lauderdale is hiring an experienced Director of Conference Services to join its opening leadership team. This role is crucial in ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction for all group-related events, crafting memorable experiences. The Director will work closely with Sales, the Executive Chef, and Banquet leadership to exceed group expectations and achieve budgeted catering and banquet revenues. Reporting to the Director of Sales & Marketing, the ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills, a commitment to service excellence, and a passion for leading high-performing teams. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of a premier resort.

The Director will lead, organize, and direct the activities of various managers and coordinators within the department. Ensuring adherence to departmental policies and optimizing workflow for maximum efficiency are key responsibilities. The role involves driving financial outcomes by managing contract terms, increasing food and beverage spend, and ensuring room rental performance. Additional responsibilities include overseeing the condition and presentation of function rooms and equipment, providing leadership and training to department personnel, and maintaining strong relationships with outside vendors. Effective communication between departments, maintaining partnerships, and achieving banquet revenue goals are essential to this role.

Key qualifications for the position include over three years of experience leading a Conference/Convention Services department in an upscale hotel or resort environment. The candidate should have a proven track record of motivating teams to exceed goals while delivering exceptional guest service. A strong understanding of forecasting, budgeting, labor scheduling, P&L analysis, productivity, inventory controls, and food and beverage cost management is necessary. Technical proficiency with systems like Micros and Birchstreet is preferred, along with the ability to analyze performance trends and implement corrective actions. Strong leadership skills, including talent development and mentorship, are also required.