Event Service Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Chicago, IL 60611Salary Range: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 Salary/year   Position Summary The Event Services Manager is responsible for coordinating and executing group meetings, catered events, and special functions at Hotel EMC2, Autograph Collection. Serving as the primary liaison between clients and hotel Sales & Operations Teams from contract turnover through event completion, this role ensures seamless execution, financial accuracy, and exceptional guest experiences aligned with the hotel’s Art + Science hospitality philosophy. This position requires establishing and maintaining strong client relationships before, during, and after events to encourage repeat business, while consistently meeting and exceeding budgeted food and beverage, meeting room rental, and audiovisual revenue goals. The Event Services Manager must maintain a thorough knowledge of the hotel layout, event spaces, catering menus, and current sales programs, and work closely with the Executive Chef and Restaurant Managers to communicate event details and confirm up-to-date menus. A strong understanding of financial performance is essential, including managing F&B revenue, forecasting, budgeting, and executing strategies that drive overall operational success. Key Responsibilities Event Planning & Client Relations Serve as the primary point of contact for clients from contract turnover through post-event follow-up. Conduct pre-event planning meetings to confirm event details, timelines, and expectations. Develop and distribute Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), event resumes, and detailed operational documentation. Build and maintain strong client relationships before, during, and after events to drive repeat business. Actively seek new business opportunities for the hotel through networking while being held accountable for weekly/monthly call production to meet goals, aligned by the Director of Sales & Marketing. Actively communicate all event details, including meeting signage and logistics, to internal teams. Work closely with the Executive Chef, Director of Sales, Sales Team and Restaurant Manager with communicating booked events and confirming up to day menus. Assist in developing Marketing Plan for following year Sales, Catering & Revenue Generation Solicit, qualify, and manage catering and private dining opportunities for Hotel EMC2 and The Albert. Qualifying Catering business for Hotel EMC2 and the Albert, while strategically selling the event space best suited for the client. Respond to inbound inquiries and actively prospect for new business across multiple market segments. Upsell catering menus, enhancements, audiovisual services, and restaurant buyouts to maximize revenue. Achieve or exceed food & beverage, meeting room rental, and audiovisual revenue goals. Follow pricing and space-selling guidelines to optimize revenue per occupied space. Support overall hotel sales efforts by identifying future business opportunities and maintaining account relationships. Track sales activity, lead response time, and conversion performance. Event Execution & Operations Coordinate all event logistics including room setup, catering, restaurant service flow, and audiovisual needs. Conduct pre-event walkthroughs to ensure setups align with BEO specifications and brand standards. Oversee on-site execution for meetings, events, and restaurant functions, ensuring a seamless guest experience. Confirm food and beverage guarantees and communicate updates to culinary and operations teams. Partner closely with the Executive Chef and Director of Sales on menu planning and execution. Hold weekly BEO meetings, attend daily stand-ups, and operational briefings when needed. Financial & Administrative Responsibilities Manage contracts, rooming list billing and event billing Monitor event revenue, forecasting, and budget performance. Audit event charges and ensure accurate, timely invoicing in collaboration with Sales Team. Maintain detailed records of client communications, contracts, and event documentation. Business Development & Market Engagement Network within the local market to generate new leads and referral business. Conduct site tours and client entertainment to showcase Hotel EMC2 and The Albert. Follow up on all leads and referrals in a timely and professional manner. Participate in marketing initiatives, promotions, and sales action plans. Collaboration & Leadership Work cross-functionally with Sales, Restaurant, Front Office, and Operations teams to ensure seamless execution. Maintain a strong understanding of hotel spaces, restaurant capabilities, and menu offerings. Foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment. Support onboarding, training, and mentoring initiatives when applicable. Professional Standards Represent Hotel EMC2 and The Albert with professionalism, creativity, and a commitment to elevated service. Maintain compliance with Marriott and hotel policies, procedures, and safety standards. Uphold and contribute to the culture of innovation, individuality, and exceptional guest experiences. Qualifications Minimum 5+ years of experience in catering, event services, or hospitality sales. Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Proven ability to sell, negotiate, and build client relationships. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and hotel sales/catering systems preferred. Professional presentation and demeanor. Success Metrics Achievement of monthly and annual revenue goals Client satisfaction and repeat business Accuracy of event execution and billing Upsell performance and revenue growth Team collaboration and operational efficiency       Qualifications