Director of Event Planning and Operations - Seattle, WA

Westin Seattle is a premier hotel located at 1900 5th Ave, Seattle, Washington, known for its outstanding service and commitment to guest experience. Part of Marriott International, one of the world's leading hospitality companies, Westin Seattle upholds the brand's mission to promote wellness and well-being for guests and associates alike. The hotel offers contemporary accommodations, expansive meeting spaces, and facilities designed to create exceptional event experiences. Marriott International is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow. This commitment extends to their comprehensive benefits, career development opportunities, and an inclusive culture that celebrates unique backgrounds and talents.

The position of Event Management Manager at Westin Seattle is a full-time, management-level role, with an annual pay range between $134,000 and $174,000, including bonus eligibility. This role is critical in orchestrating the seamless execution of all hotel events, overseeing multiple departments including Event Planning, Banquets/Catering, Event Service, and Event Technology, with potential oversight of Destination Management. The Event Management Manager ensures smooth coordination from sales through operations, maintaining a high standard of service delivery and maximizing revenue opportunities via accurate forecasting and upselling strategies.

In this role, the manager leads a team responsible for executing events with precision, managing customer budgets strategically, and fostering excellent guest relations. They consult directly with clients to understand event objectives, work closely with culinary teams to uphold food safety and sanitation standards, and oversee inventory and event space maintenance according to corporate guidelines. The position demands strong leadership qualities to motivate teams, enforce policies and procedures, and cultivate an atmosphere focused on stellar customer service.

Further responsibilities include collaborating with external vendors to enhance event experiences and increase revenue, managing departmental financial performance, and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws through partnership with Human Resources. The Event Management Manager also drives internal communication within event operations, reviewing staffing levels regularly to meet guest service needs and adjusting operational procedures annually to optimize performance.

Westin Seattle values candidates who bring both hospitality and event management experience, preferably with prior roles in hotel environments. Education requirements include a high school diploma or GED with at least four years of related experience, or a two-year degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field coupled with two years of experience. The ideal candidate is passionate about wellness, driven to provide extraordinary guest experiences, and committed to professional excellence within a collaborative team setting.

High school diploma or GED
Four years experience in event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing or related field
OR Two-year degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration or related major
Two years experience in event management or related field
Strong leadership abilities
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment
Proficiency in managing budgets and forecasting
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
Experience working with diverse teams
Willingness to work full-time in Seattle, Washington
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