Choice Hotels International, Inc (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. A challenger in the upscale segment and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice® has more than 7,400 hotels, representing over 625,000 rooms, in 45 countries and territories. A diverse portfolio of 22 brands that run the gamut from full-service upper upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy enables Choice® to meet travelers' needs in more places and for more occasions while driving more value for franchise owners and shareholders. The award-winning Choice Privileges® loyalty program and co-brand credit card options provide members with a fast and easy way to earn reward nights and personalized perks. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com. 

The ability to model Choice’s Cultural Values: Welcome and Respect Everyone, Be Bold, Be Quick, Listen, Be Curious and Show Integrity are key to our success in inspiring Loyalty, Growth, and the Hospitality Spirit.

Our managed hotels portfolio includes Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Red, Park Plaza, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson.

Join Our Renowned Team as Director of Catering – Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago Downtown

Are you a seasoned hotelier sales professional with a passion for curating extraordinary experiences? The Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago Downtown is in search of an exceptional, results-oriented Director of Catering to lead the events and catering operations of this iconic property. Nestled within the architectural masterpiece that is the Aqua Tower and situated in the heart of Chicago's vibrant downtown, our hotel represents the pinnacle of hospitality.

Starting Salary: $105,000 annually.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serves as the authority in the development of the hotel's business strategies relative to banquet and catering revenues
• Identifying and establishing catering goals and customer relationships that align with the monthly, quarterly, and annual forecast.
• Develops and distributes regular update reports including budget and forecast for the department
• Provide leadership, onboarding, coaching, and sales training to catering sales and convention services managers
• Achieve catering revenue and convention service customer services goals by developing and implementing strategies for selling and servicing events
• Ensure strong coordination and communication between departments as appropriate, prior to and during and event successfully meeting the expectations of the client and attendees
• Attend networking events, participate in community involvement opportunities, and serve as a strong presence for hotel service brand advocacy

Benefits When You Make It Your Choice:

• Employee discounts on thousands of hotels
• Full benefits package to our full-time employees, including health, dental, vision, short & long term disability, auto insurance, and more
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employer paid Accident insurance and HSA contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan

Requirements/Skills

• Minimum five years catering sales and convention services management experience, preferably in the local hotel industry
• High school diploma required, bachelor's degree preferred
• Able to resolve conflicts guests, supervisor and employee
• Able to collaborate effectively with other hotel employees and managers to ensure teamwork
• Excellent creative skills to provide innovative solutions and strong presentation skills
• Excellent negotiation skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Active participation in industry related organizations
• Required to stand, sit and walk for extended periods of times
• Lift, carry or otherwise move and use of force or exertion up to 75 lbs.
• Use of manual dexterity of common office equipment such as computers, printers, phones, etc.

Ability to model Choice’s Cultural Values: Welcome and Respect Everyone, Be Bold, Be Quick, Listen, Be Curious and Show Integrity are key to our success in inspiring Loyalty, Growth, and the Hospitality Spirit.

Choice Hotels International is an equal opportunity employer and affirmative action employer. Employment practices and decisions are not influenced by an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or express, disability veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, this offer of employment is conditional upon your presenting documents verifying your identity and legal authorization to work in the United States.  All offers of employment are conditional upon the satisfactory completion of a background check and E-Verify.