Photo of Sheraton Grand Chicago, Chicago, IL

Director of Event Operations

Sheraton Grand Chicago

301 East North Water Street
Chicago, IL 60611

1,214 Room Hotel
Managed By Marriott International
Save

Full-Time

Job Number

24049910

Job Category

Event Management

Location

Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, 301 East North Water Street, Chicago, Illinois, United States VIEW ON MAP

Schedule

Full-Time

Located Remotely?

N

Relocation?

N

Position Type

Management

Job Summary

Manages all event service, banquet and event technology operations and staff on a daily basis. Core area of responsibility is the event operation team, including the Senior Banquet Managers, Banquet Managers, Senior Event Service Managers, Event Service Managers, Event Technology and Operations Managers. Position ensures the highest level of service throughout the event phase. Maximizes revenue opportunities by up-selling during the event phase and maximizes profit by effectively managing costs. The position is responsible for achieving guest and employee satisfaction and for managing the financial performance of the Event Operations Department.

Candidate Profile

Education And Experience
  • 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 experience in the event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.

    Core Work Activities

    Managing Event Management Operations And Budgets

  • Works with the management team to develop and implement the business plan and long term strategies for event operations.
  • Establishes and monitors measurable goals for the department.
  • Champions all standards, policies and procedures in the Event Operations departments.
  • Oversees the execution of event logistics for all events.
  • Oversees the administrative processes associated with the event phase of a function and the associated transitions between all event phases as they relate to the service delivery team.
  • Ensures function space and corresponding heart of the house areas are cleaned and maintained.
  • Ensures furniture and equipment is maintained and inventory levels are kept in accordance to corporate guidelines.
  • Communicates and executes departmental and property emergency procedures and ensures staff are trained in safety procedures.
  • Participates in MVP audits and level certification for all technicians.
  • Ensures employees maintain required certification.
  • Assists with implementation and execution of all event related corporate initiatives and promotions.

    Managing Profitability

  • Ensures department is working within budget and adjusts expenditures according to revenues.
  • Maintains awareness of current trends in event management and integrates into the operation in a timely manner.
  • Reviews effectiveness of event operations annually and makes appropriate adjustments.

    Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service

  • Consult with customers in order to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences, and conventions.
  • Displays leadership in guest hospitality, exemplifies excellent customer service and creates a positive atmosphere for guest relations.
  • Maintains customer satisfaction to insure retention and growth of business through referrals and repeat events.

    Leading Event Management Teams

  • Leads execution of activities in Event Operations to support the Event Management strategy.
  • Leads event management/operations meetings.
  • Coordinates the Event Operations members of Event Delivery teams.
  • Works with culinary team to ensure compliance to food handling and sanitation standards.
  • Works with Human Resources to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
  • Ensures that regular, ongoing communication is happening in all areas of event operations.

    Maintaining Relationships With Property Stakeholders

  • Communicates effectively with property departments outside of Event Operations.
  • Maintains a strong working relationship with guests/clients, vendors and competitors.

    Conducting Human Resources Activities

  • Reviews staffing levels to ensure that guest service and operational needs are met.
  • Works with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts.
  • Attends pre-event meetings to understand group needs, set appropriate expectations and gather critical information to communicate to Event Operations Team.
  • Ensures disciplinary procedures and documentation are completed according to Standard Operating Procedures and Local Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs and LSOPs) and support the Peer Review Process.

    The salary range for this position is $107,000.00 to $144,000.00 annually. Marriott offers a bonus program, comprehensive health care benefits, 401(k) plan with up to 5% company match, employee stock purchase plan at 15% discount, accrued paid time off (including sick leave where applicable), life insurance, group disability insurance, travel discounts, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, health savings account (except for positions based out of or performed in Hawaii), flexible spending accounts, tuition assistance, pre-tax commuter benefits, other life and work wellness benefits, and may include other incentives such as stock awards and deferred compensation plans. Benefits and incentive compensation may be subject to generally applicable eligibility, waiting period, contribution, and other requirements and conditions.  

    The compensation and benefits information is provided as of the date of this posting. Marriott reserves the right to modify compensation and benefits at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.

  • 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.



    When you join the Sheraton family, you become a member of its global community. We’ve been a place to gather and connect since 1937. At Sheraton, associates create a sense of belonging in more than 400 communities around the world. We invite, we welcome, and we connect guests through engaging experiences and thoughtful service. If you’re a team player who is excited to deliver a meaningful guest experience, we encourage you to explore your next career opportunity with Sheraton. Join us on our mission to be ‘The World’s Gathering Place’. In joining Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International.

    Be

    where you can do your best work,​ 

    Begin

     your purpose, 

    Belong

     to an amazing global​ team, and 

    Become

     the best version of you.
    Posted March 21, 2024

    Sheraton Grand Chicago

    Welcome To Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk

    Enrich your travels at our Chicago hotel by the river

    Located in the heart of the River North district, Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is an urban sanctuary amid iconic attractions in downtown Chicago. Embrace refined comfort in family-friendly hotel rooms and suites enhanced by essentials such as ultra-comfortable Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience beds and striking views of the lake, river and Chicago cityscape. Delight your palate at our hotel restaurants, from Shula's Steak House to Chicago Burger Company, open seasonally along Chicago Riverwalk. Enjoy our coveted location by the river near Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile. Take advantage of 125,000 square feet of dynamic event space with one of the largest ballrooms in Illinois. Wind down after a busy day of meetings or sightseeing at our sun deck, fitness center with Peloton bikes and sparkling indoor pool. An urban gem in a storied destination, Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is the perfect home base for your visit to downtown Chicago.