Sage Wollongong has 168 rooms, Coldwater Creek Restaurant and Bar, The Five Islands Room & Terrace Restaurant and 13 function rooms and event spaces all equipped with the latest technology, retractable sound-proof doors and two separate pre-function areas. The Grand Pacific Ballroom is ideal for large conferences hosting up to 400 delegates (theatre-style), Sage Hotel Wollongong's stunning southern coastal backdrop, with an adjoining outdoor deck and garden lend themselves well as an ideal wedding spot.

We are looking for a dynamic individual to be the driving force behind the incredible events we will host at Sage Wollongong! If you love hosting events, be it weddings or business conferences, we would love to hear from you.

Conference and Events Manager

About the role  

From events planning to events execution, the Conference and Events Manager will be responsible for delivering brilliant events and exceptional guest experiences at the Hotel.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Events team and operation departments to provide a consistent level of high-quality customer service to all guests being welcomed at the Hotel. 

Key areas of responsibility and accountability include but not limited to: 

• Manage all details of the events, including food and beverage, meeting specifications, audio visual, room block, deposit follow up, and VIP requests etc 
• Ensure an on-site presence in the hotel when key functions are on; this includes greeting guests at the start of the events and remaining available to guests during the events 
• Work closely with operation departments to ensure swift and effective resolution of any guest issues that may arise before or during the events 
• Proactively manage business opportunities and maximise revenue by up selling packages and creative food and beverage
• Ensure high quality presentations, timely and accurate completion of all necessary paperwork related to events   
• Lead, motivate, actively develop, and work alongside the Events team to ensure smooth running of all events and functions within the Hotel

The Conference and Events Manager will live the Next Story Group’s Core Values of Passion, Accountability, Integrity and Respect. The successful candidate plays a critical role in building a positive culture in the Events team and throughout the Hotel.

You love what you do and your passion attracts others to want to work with you in creating great memorable events. If you possess the following, we would love to hear from you: 

Experience & Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in all aspects of conferencing and weddings for a Hotel 
• Familiarity with various Hotel Management systems required for your role and adept at inputting content on the run
• Prior team management experience 
• Strong track record of good stakeholder management and Sales experience including cold calling

Other Skills / Traits 

• Driven, confident and persuasive; you are fabulous at connecting with people and building strong relationships
• Creative and versatile; you understand that each client is different, and you customize the catering, set up and event to suit their expectations
• Strong sense of purpose and work ethic, with an "I own the business” mindset
• Strong problem-solving skills and great follow-up skills to ensure timely resolution of guest issues
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 
• Superior customer service skills
• Attention to details and well-organised
• Ability to maintain high workloads and meet deadlines while remaining calm and effective under pressure; nothing fazes you 
• Able to work onsite, whenever functions are on-going 
• A hands-on team player who is willing to roll up his/her sleeves to get things done

We thank all interested parties in advance for their applications. However, only successful applicants will be contacted. Next Story Group is an equal opportunities employer with a zero tolerance to discrimination, harassment or any type of behaviours that are contrary to providing a safe, inclusive & respectful environment for all.

The application form will include these questions:

• How many years' experience do you have in the hospitality & tourism industry?
• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
• What's your expected annual base salary?
• How much notice are you required to give your current employer?