As the Event Sales Manager at Grand Hotel Timeo, a Belmond Hotel, you will be a key figure in the commercial and operational management of the groups and events segment. Operating at the intersection of sales and operations, you will be responsible for driving proactive and reactive sales strategies (spanning both rooms and the F&B department), ensuring deal conversion and the flawless delivery of luxury service standards. Your objective will be to strengthen Grand Hotel Timeo’s positioning in the high-end events market by coordinating the team and working closely with all operational departments.
Main Responsibilities Include:
Sales Management and Negotiations (Reactive & Proactive):
- Promptly handle incoming inquiries for events and groups, managing the entire negotiation lifecycle and creating customized proposals to maximize conversion.
- Work closely with the Events Executive, SESO management, and the hotel team to exceed client expectations during negotiations.
- Develop systematic follow-up strategies for leads that do not convert immediately, while continuously monitoring incoming requests.
- Utilize personalized communication to showcase the unique offerings of our hotel and destination.
- Organize and coordinate client site inspections, collaborating with the Special Events Sales Office (SESO) in Milan for both pre- and post-visit activities.
- Manage all details regarding group accommodation (tour series, leisure, and corporate groups), from rooming lists to room block management and cut-off dates.
- Support the PST and SESO teams in managing on-property commercial initiatives, such as familiarization trips (MICE and Celebration Fam trips).
Development of Opportunities and Tailored Proposals:
- Create customized event proposals (non-accommodation related) that highlight upselling opportunities, such as premium packages, additional services (catering, decorations, audiovisual), and exclusive experiences (team-building activities, excursions).
- Promote value-added services (VIP treatments, personalized itineraries, or unique local experiences) to increase revenue per event.
Collaboration with Operations and Operational Coordination:
- Ensure alignment between sales and operations, making sure that all logistical details, set-ups, and client requests are clearly communicated to the operational team for flawless execution.
- Organize pre-conference meetings and support operational teams during the execution of events.
- Maintain constant communication with the Front Office Manager, Housekeeping, and Food & Beverage Manager to guarantee the flawless execution of all groups and events.
- Implement a continuous feedback system and exit interviews with the SESO Director, General Managers, and Operations to monitor client satisfaction and continuously refine service standards.
Performance Metrics (KPIs):
- Monitor and analyze event-related revenue metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of sales strategies.
- Achieve pre-set group and F&B revenue targets, as well as established banqueting objectives.
- Maintain high standards of guest satisfaction and ensure strong alignment with key stakeholders
Requirements
- Experience: Proven experience in a similar sales or events management role, preferably within luxury hospitality or upscale hotel environments.
- Education: Degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Economics, or equivalent qualification.
- Languages: Excellent command of written and spoken English and Italian; knowledge of a third language is considered a strong plus.
- IT Skills: Proficiency in MS Office and major hotel property management / event booking systems (e.g., Opera).
- Skills & Competencies:
- Strong commercial acumen and results-driven mindset.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Outstanding organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong collaborative approach and team-working skills across multiple departments.
Benefits
What We Offer:
At Belmond we pride ourselves on fostering a culture built on kindness, active listening, and genuine connections with our colleagues and guests. We offer a comprehensive range of compensation, perks and benefits including:
- permanent contract.
- competitive salary.
- incentive plan.
- Team social events.
- Meals provided at our staff canteen during working hours.
- A unique opportunity to gain experience in a world-class luxury environment.
- Participation in the hotel's training and development programs.
- Discovering Belmond programme, which offers team members complimentary accommodation at Belmond hotels, discounted rates for our trains, cruises and safaris, and discounted food and beverages.
We strive to create an environment where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally. With a commitment to your ongoing development, you'll have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside some of the most talented individuals in the industry. Join us and be part of creating unforgettable moments for our guests, communities, and each other.
About Us:
Grand Hotel Timeo, a Belmond Hotel, is a storied Sicilian hideaway in the heart of Taormina. Adjacent to the ancient Greek Theatre, its views span majestic Mount Etna and Naxos Bay. Since the mid-1800s, this exclusive enclave away from the crowds has proved irresistible to discerning visitors, from celebrated writers such as DH Lawrence to Hollywood icons. Today, it is the perfect setting for memorable stays, enhanced by a wide array of experiences including Michelin-starred dining and exclusive concierge bookings.
The Belmond & LVMH Family
Belmond is proud to be part of LVMH, and the Belmond global collection of iconic hotels, trains and river cruises, all creating exceptional experiences worldwide. When you join one of our properties, you join a global family of history-rich hotels and breathtaking destinations, where our employees are at the heart of the Belmond experience.
