Events Executive - Social & Catering Markets

Job Description

Crowne Plaza Hotels and InterContinental Hotels preserve the glamorous spirit of international travel. Working for these hotels is not just a job; it's about contributing to a truly unique experience. We are looking for friendly, confident, and cosmopolitan individuals who are ready to exceed our guests' expectations.

We focus on delivering exceptional service to the modern business traveler, while Inspiring Incredible moments for those staying at InterContinental - where luxury blends seamlessly with unforgettable experiences.

Crowne Plaza invites you to Dare to Connect with our diverse and dynamic teams, and to showcase your unique talents in an environment where every moment matters - creating meaningful connections that elevate the guest experience.

Join us to contribute to the success of our teams and create memorable experiences in Geneva !

A glimpse of your daily life

Every day is different, but you will mainly be :

Social Events Sales & Business Development:

• Act as the primary point of contact for social event enquiries, including : weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, engagements and anniversaries, private celebrations, gala dinners and social banquets, family celebrations, luxury private events.
• Proactively develop new business within the luxury social events market.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with wedding planners, event agencies, private clients, families, luxury brands and other relevant partners.
• Conduct site inspections and personalised presentations for prospective clients and event organisers.
• Prepare proposals, quotations and contracts in line with the hotel's commercial strategy and positioning.
• Negotiate rates and packages while protecting the hotel's profitability and luxury positioning.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all opportunities, accounts and activities within the hotel's systems.

Clients Relationship Management

• Deliver a highly personalised and professional level of service throughout the entire customer journey.
• Understand each client's vision, expectations, cultural requirements and personal preferences.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, providing creative solutions and recommendations to enhance their event.
• Ensure seamless communication between the client, Events team and all relevant hotel departments.
• Handling client concerns professionally and proactively, ensuring a high level of guest satisfaction.

Events Planning & Coordination :

• Manage social events from initial enquiry through to final billing and post-event follow-up.
• Coordinate closely with Banqueting, Food & Beverage, Culinary, Front Office, Finance, Housekeeping and other operational departments.
• Prepare detailed event orders, function sheets and operational briefings.
• Ensure that all event details, timings, menus, set-ups and special requirements are accurately communicated.
• Coordinate menu tastings, site visits and final event meetings.
• Be present on selected key events to ensure the smooth execution and delivery of the client's expectations.
• Conduct post-event follow-up and identify opportunities for repeat business and referrals.

Support to the Wider Events Team :

• Support the Events team during periods of lower social event activity.
• Manage and coordinate corporate meetings, conferences, banquets and other events when required.
• Contribute to the overall revenue performance of the Events department.
• Maintain flexibility and a collaborative approach across all event segments.
• Support colleagues during peak periods and contribute to a strong team culture.

Commercial Responsibilities :

• Achieve agreed individual and departmental revenue targets.
• Monitor conversion rates, average spend and profitability of social events.
• Proactively upsell hotel facilities, accommodation, food & beverage and additional events services.
• Develop creative packages and initiatives to attract new social event business.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity and client expectations within the luxury social events sector.
• Share relevant market intelligence and business opportunities with the Director of Events.

What we need from you

Higher Degree in Hospitality Management and/or Business Administration. Proven experience in a luxury hotel, high-end event venue, wedding planning company or similar environment, ideally within a 5-star hospitality setting.

Strong knowledge of the social events and wedding market, particularly in Geneva, Switzerland and/or the international luxury market.

An existing network of contacts within the wedding, event planning, luxury and private client sectors is highly desirable.

Fluent French and English. Mastering a third foreign language is highly desirable (Hebrew, German, Italian).

Excellent computer skills and knowledge of Delphi or Salesforce and Opera.

Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays when required by the events calendar.

Gifted with excellent interpersonal skills and a strong sense of observation, you demonstrate attentiveness, diplomacy, organization, and responsiveness on a daily basis. You will bring us your passion and energy and share with us your desire to grow and develop.

What you can expect from us

We give our colleagues everything they need to succeed. From a competitive salary that rewards all your hard work to a wide range of benefits designed to help you live your best professional life - including a full uniform, complimentary meals, attractive room discounts, and some of the best training in the industry.

Join us and you'll become part of the global IHG family - and like in every family, all our team members share a few winning qualities. As a team, we work better together - we trust and support each other, we do the right thing, and we welcome different perspectives.

You'll need to show us that you care about the details: that you notice the little things that make a big difference for our guests, and that you're always looking for ways to improve.

The position is available on a permanent contract basis.

Visit http://careers.ihg.com to learn more about us and apply, or to send us your application, please contact us at [email protected]