Director of Conferencing and Event Sales

About Capella Sydney

For generations, the Department of Education building in Sydney’s Sandstone Precinct stood quietly, its golden facade forming an unassuming backdrop to the rhythm of the city. Reawakening as Capella Sydney in March 2023, the heritage-listed icon welcomed guests inside its walls for the very first time, setting a global benchmark for luxury accommodation, cuisine and cultural immersion. Embedding visitors in the beating heart of the city’s commercial, cultural and hospitality precinct, Capella Sydney also marks the first property under the Capella Hotels and Resorts constellation to open in Australia.

Balancing storied architectural features with a contemporary design aesthetic, Capella Sydney celebrates the Australian panorama through its interiors, location and experiences. 192 spacious guestrooms and suites and an unsurpassed wellness offering are anchored by three ground-level food and beverage outlets and a collection of bespoke function spaces. Original characteristics are celebrated throughout the hotel, with reimagined interiors unfurling to reveal commissioned and collected artworks, sophisticated furnishings and intriguing objet d’art– all within the footsteps of the glistening harbour foreshore, the famed Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Position Summary

The Director of Conferencing and Event Sales will oversee all aspects of the department, including the upcoming Department of Lands combining as the Sandstone Precinct.

This role involves providing strong sales-oriented strategic leadership to the conferencing and events team, ensuring events are executed seamlessly and delivering exceptional service. The individual is responsible for offering personalised service to guests and managing events and group accommodations. Their responsibilities include ensuring a smooth transition from pre-sales to post-event through effective coordination and communication.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the team to deliver seamless, upscale guest experiences across all event-related services.
• Cultivate and nurture client relationships, actively seeking opportunities for new business and repeat engagements.
• Develop a comprehensive catering sales strategy to achieve revenue targets and market share growth.
• Oversee the end-to-end planning and execution of catering events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations.
• Provide personalised and attentive service throughout the planning and execution, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams, including culinary and event operations, to ensure flawless coordination and consistently high guest satisfaction.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to create innovative and customised menus that reflect the Hotel's commitment to culinary excellence.
• Negotiate and manage relationships with external vendors and suppliers, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality products and services.
• Monitor expenses, negotiate contracts with suppliers, and implement effective cost-control measures.

Talent Profile

• A hospitality management diploma or bachelor’s degree in events management is preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in comparable roles within luxury hotels or resorts is necessary.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with Property Management Systems (e.g., Opera Cloud) and other hotel-related systems
• Basic understanding of AV equipment.
• Robust Interpersonal Skills
• Proficient in both written and spoken English.
• Responsible Service of Alcohol
• Full-time valid working rights in Australia.

Working with Capella Sydney

• Be part of a dynamic and supportive work environment.
• Work in beautifully crafted spaces and amenities in a Heritage building.
• Online LinkedIn training courses for personal and career development.
• Full uniform provided and laundered.
• Complimentary shift meals.
• Hotel and Group Discounts.
• Employee Assistant Program (EAP) provides confidential counselling and support
• Birthday Leave.
• Ability to grow and develop within the group and opportunities with the group.

* Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.