Built in 1961 as a private family getaway, Minnesuing Acres (aka The Lodge) has transformed into a secluded business retreat center and gathering spot for special events and family occasions. Located in northwestern Wisconsin on Lake Minnesuing, our 35-room facility offers large meeting spaces, delectable menu offerings and year-round outdoor and indoor activities. The Lodge provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to work with an outstanding team in a truly unique setting. We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plan with company match, paid time off, and more.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a full-time Sales and Events Manager to host events that are innovative and impactful, driving engagement and appreciation from our guests. This position is responsible for selling, planning, managing, and executing the organization of Minnesuing Acres events, including any event where corporate or families gather, hosted weekend events, and private family holiday events. The Sales and Events Manager will regularly determine potential growth opportunities for the Lodge and work in collaboration with the General Manager, Meeting Coordinator, and other departmental staff to create, plan and execute events. The successful candidate must be able to work flexible hours. Working hours will primarily be weekdays, but will also include some nights, weekends and holidays as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
• Networking with local Chamber groups, event planners and group contacts to drive winter season business at the Lodge
• Prospecting new business and participating in trade shows
• Developing strategies to leverage historical groups, new inquiries, Family connections, and Chamber of Commerce relationships
• Coordinating the contracting of the Lodge for events such as weddings, family reunions, and corporate retreats
• Developing and implementing a strategic plan for event planning to align with and support the goals of the Lodge while ensuring brand identity and customer satisfaction
• Leading ongoing efforts of Lodge to innovate and create fresh events, menus, activities, and programs
• Assisting budget creation and compliance within each event and the fiscal year
• Addressing guest comments and providing ongoing staff feedback and coaching for consistent improvement
• Intervening in guest/employee situation, as needed, to maintain integrity of Lodge while achieving guest satisfaction and employee well-being
• Documenting events and conducting post-event session with group contact for future reference
• Reviewing comment card and guest satisfaction responses with department managers
• Collaborating with all Lodge leaders and departments to promote and enhance interdepartmental relationships, and to ensure successful execution of every event detail
• Communicating respectfully and building relationships of trust with employees and guests of all cultures and abilities
• Maintaining a central calendar for the Lodge
• Establishing policies and procedures regarding group solicitation, procurement, contracts, and events
• Utilizing the identified customer management tools to track contacts to ensure interactions are accompanied by planned support and follow-up
• Producing agendas and thorough plans with group contacts with details including attendance, room seating, activities selection, dietary needs, and transportation
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Five years of full-time, professional experience in sales, event planning and management
• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Ability to maintain prominent level of confidentiality and discretion
• Possess leadership skills that will motivate the Lodge into high performance
• Strong customer service orientation, verbal and written communication and listening skills
• Dependability with strong work ethic and high degree of integrity
• Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Suite and CRM applications