Director of Event Planning

Marriott International is a leading global hospitality company renowned for its high standards of service, innovation, and excellent guest experiences. Within its extensive portfolio, JW Marriott represents the luxury segment, featuring over 100 exquisite properties located in prime gateway cities and distinctive resort destinations worldwide. Marriott International is known for fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where associates are valued for their unique backgrounds, talents, and experiences. This commitment is reflected in their equal opportunity employment practices, emphasizing diversity and inclusion across all levels of the organization. The company prioritizes associate well-being, providing opportunities for training, development, and recognition, and ensuring a workplace culture that supports passion and holistic wellness.

The JW Marriott brand builds on the legacy of its founder, J. Willard Marriott, embodying genuine hospitality and innovation. JW Marriott properties offer associates a sense of community and camaraderie, which enhances both personal and professional growth in a luxury hospitality environment. The emphasis on "The JW Treatment™" highlights the relationship between taking exceptional care of associates and delivering outstanding guest experiences. By joining JW Marriott, professionals become part of a prestigious network within Marriott International's family of brands, enabling them to do their best work, begin their purpose, belong to a global team, and become the best versions of themselves.

The role of Event Planning Manager at the Oakland Convention Center, part of Marriott's premium portfolio, is a full-time management position offering an annual salary range of $114,000 to $152,000, including eligibility for bonuses. This position is instrumental in overseeing the event planning department, which includes Senior Event Managers, Event Managers, Associate Event Managers, and Administrative Assistants. The manager is responsible for the daily management of event planning operations, ensuring seamless transitions between the sales and operations teams and delivering exceptional service throughout all event phases.

The Event Planning Manager also leads the financial performance of the department by maximizing revenue through effective forecasting, up-selling catering and group room blocks, and managing customer budgets. This role demands a strategic leader who can foster a high level of guest and employee satisfaction by guiding their team in executing the event management strategy and managing complex or high-profile events. The manager also drives operational efficiency by overseeing administrative processes, addressing service challenges before they arise, and ensuring compliance with safety procedures and emergency protocols.

This position requires strong leadership capabilities to develop and maintain catering menus, enforce team standards, lead meetings, and cultivate valuable relationships with outside vendors to enhance event experiences. The role emphasizes exceptional customer service by actively engaging with guests, reviewing satisfaction data, resolving complaints, and empowering employees to provide outstanding service. Additionally, the Event Planning Manager is responsible for human resources activities such as establishing service guidelines, ensuring ongoing training, monitoring service behaviors, and maintaining appropriate staffing levels to meet guest and event needs effectively.

Overall, this role presents an exciting opportunity to lead a dedicated team in a premier venue, delivering exquisite event experiences that align with Marriott International's commitment to hospitality excellence. The position offers competitive remuneration and the chance to grow within a global hospitality leader committed to diversity, inclusion, and career development.