Job Description

The Director of Catering and Conference Services leads the strategic direction, growth, and daily operations of the hotel's catering and conference services division. This role is responsible for fostering a high-performance, service-driven culture that drives revenue growth, strengthens community relationships, and elevates the guest experience. As a key member of the leadership team, the Director partners with other departments to align catering and banquet operations with the hotel's overall sales and marketing strategy. They contribute to annual planning, budgeting, and forecasting.

Salary Range $110,000 - $120,000 (experience-based compensation)

About our Hotel

The Hotel at the University of Maryland is a AAA Four-Diamond, independent hotel located steps from the University of Maryland campus. With 297 guest rooms, including 24 suites, and more than 45,000 square feet of flexible event space, the hotel hosts events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions of up to 1,500 guests. The team is committed to delivering personalized service and cultivating a workplace culture that supports growth, development, and long-term career advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the catering and conference services team to establish a best-in-class sales and service operation within the DC Metro market.
• Drive top-line revenue through strategic sales initiatives, proactive business development, and effective pricing strategies.
• Cultivate a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team environment.
• Strengthen partnerships with the University of Maryland and the local community to identify new business opportunities and enhance market presence.
• Establish and uphold service standards for catering, conference services, and banquet operations to ensure exceptional event execution.
• Actively solicit, qualify, and secure new business while maintaining strong relationships with existing clients.s
• Negotiate contracts, including food and beverage pricing, space rental, and service offerings within approved guidelines.
• Oversee the preparation and accuracy of catering contracts and banquet event orders.s
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure seamless delivery of services and client satisfaction.
• Manage events from initial booking through execution, ensuring profitability and high-quality outcomes.s
• Serve as the primary liaison between clients and hotel operations to ensure successful events and repeat business.
• Lead site tours, client presentations, and participation in networking and industry events
• Prepare and analyze monthly sales reports, forecasts, and performance metrics.s
• Contribute to the annual marketing plan, budgeting process, and ongoing financial forecasting.
• Recruit, train, coach, and evaluate team members while fostering professional development.t
• Ensure compliance with company policies, service standards, and operational procedures.
• Maintain flexibility to work during peak business periods, including weekends, holidays, and special events.s
• Support overall team success through collaboration, problem-solving, and continuous process improvement.
• Stay informed of industry trends and innovations to maintain a competitive edge.e

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Effective time management and prioritization skills
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building capabilities
• Ability to perform basic financial and mathematical calculations
• Composure and effectiveness in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
• Proficiency in relevant systems and software (e.g., Outlook, Word, Excel, Canva, Maestro, Delphi, Social Tables)

Qualifications

• Minimum of four years' experience as a Director or Associate Director of Catering in a comparable hotel environment
• Proven experience managing and supervising a team of 4–6 employees
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field preferred

This role is ideal for a dynamic, results-driven leader who is passionate about hospitality, team development, and delivering exceptional event experiences.

Benefits and Perks

Donohoe Hospitality Services is pleased to offer employees a comprehensive Benefits Package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance*, leaves of absence, retirement plans, paid time off, and MORE! Through this selection of benefits and perks, we strive to provide employees with options that enhance their quality of life at work and beyond.

*Minimum 32 hours/week to qualify

We also offer daily pay access, where you can receive your earnings on the same day you work, empowering you to manage your finances easily and confidently.