About Us:
We are a family-owned business with over 55+ years in the hospitality industry, and we are deeply committed to creating exceptional experiences for our clients and every guest. As a family, we currently own Calamus Estate Winery in Niagara and have newly obtained The Richmond Estate Winery in Richmond, Ontario (near Ottawa) in May 2024. Both wineries focus on weddings and special events, boasting unique barn locations.
As we continue to grow our group of wineries, we are looking for a passionate and organized Special Event Manager to join our team and help us deliver unforgettable events at Calamus Estate Winery. If you're ready to be part of a family-oriented team that creates lasting memories for our clients, we want to hear from you!
Position Overview:
As a Special Event Manager, you will play a vital role in planning and executing a wide range of events, including weddings, corporate events, and special events held by the winery. You will oversee every step of the process, from the initial sales call and planning phase to vendor coordination and event execution, with a focus on delivering seamless and memorable experiences for all. This role combines event coordination, client relations, marketing, staff management, and vendor coordination to ensure each event exceeds expectations.
Reporting directly to the Director of Weddings and Events, you will leverage your skills in sales, customer service, and time management to meet both client and company objectives.
This position offers flexible hours and the option to work from home as permitted. The position does require on-site availability for client visits and attendance at events on weekends from May to October during our peak wedding and event season. The position also demands the ability to work independently and think quickly to solve problems as they arise.
Your hospitality experience will be key in enhancing event production and guest engagement, helping us deliver a personalized, family-oriented experience that our clients cherish.
Primary Responsibilities:
· Event Planning and Execution: Manage all aspects of event planning, from initial concept to final execution, ensuring smooth operations on the event day.
· Team Leadership: Lead and manage event staff, ensuring high-quality service and efficient event flow.
· Wedding Sales & Commission: Promote and sell the venue’s wedding packages, manage prospective client inquiries, conduct venue tours,
and convert leads into confirmed bookings. Maintain strong relationships with prospective couples throughout the sales process, working toward established booking targets and revenue goals. Eligible to earn commission on successfully booked weddings in accordance with the company’s commission structure and policies.
· Client Interaction: Meet with clients to understand their event needs and vision to ensure their expectations are exceeded through our wedding packages.
· Vendor Coordination: Manage relationships with vendors, oversee orders, and logistics, and manage deliverables to ensure they meet quality standards and client expectations with event-day needs.
· Marketing & Promotion: Assist in social media content creation and promotional activities to enhance the visibility of events.
· Collaboration with the Team: Collaborating with the Director of Weddings and Events to achieve business goals and elevate the client experience. Collaborating with other owners and managers of our wineries to ensure client visions are met and not in conflict with other winery operations and/or events.
· Operational Support: Handle completion of contracts, banquet orders, bar sheets, and event-related documents. As well as assisting with bar and linen ordering.
· Problem-solving: Address any on-site issues promptly, ensuring smooth event execution.
· Innovation and Process Improvement: Identify and implement opportunities to enhance event operations, streamline processes, and improve overall efficiency. Stay informed on industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitor offerings. Conduct competitive analyses and regularly review booking data and analytics to identify trends, evaluate performance, and support strategic business growth.
· Budget and Timeline Management: Develop, manage, and track project timelines, schedules, and budgets.
· Event and Team Improvement: Identify opportunities for innovation and improvement in event processes.
· Client Relationship Management:
Develop strong client relationships to understand their event needs and ensure satisfaction.
Education:
College diploma or university degree. Ideally in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field. Equivalent relevant work experience will also be considered.
Experience:
· Minimum of 2+ years of experience in event planning and coordination or within the hospitality industry.
· Strong experience in managing timelines, staff & vendor relations.
· Sales experience.
Skills:
· Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
· Strong leadership and team management skills.
· Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
· Ability to work under pressure and handle challenges effectively.
· Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and client satisfaction.
· Proficient in event management software and Microsoft Office.
· Experience with event software.
· Strong sales skills.
Personal Attributes:
· Creative and proactive problem-solving skills.
· Strong customer service orientation.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Flexibility to work irregular hours and work on weekends.
· Strong analytical skills and business insight.
· Able to handle multiple tasks at the same time.
· Active team player.
Work Schedule:
This position offers flexibility with the option to work from home. However, on-site availability is required for sales appointments with clients and on any event days.
Why Join the Team?
· A supportive, family-oriented work environment.
· Opportunity to be part of a growing company with an excellent 55 year track record.
· Flexible work hours and work from home options.
· Competitive salary, commissions, gratuities, and benefits.
· Product and events discounts.
If you're passionate about event planning and customer service, and you thrive in a fast paced, cooperative environment, we encourage you to apply and become a key member of our team.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and why you'd be a great fit for this position: Director of Weddings and Events:
[email protected]
We will be accepting applications until November 30th, no phone calls please.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $40,000.00-$60,000.00 per year
Benefits
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- Store discount
- Work from home
Work Location: In person
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