Director of Catering and Events

Job Overview: Director of Catering and Events

Holiday Inn Hotels is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Catering and Events to lead the department in Phoenix, AZ. This role is designed for an experienced hospitality leader who can blend high-level sales strategy with meticulous operational execution.

As the Director, you are the architect of the hotel’s event business, responsible for everything from initial client acquisition and budget management to the final “post-event” follow-up. Your goal is to ensure every wedding, corporate conference, and social gala is executed with seamless precision.

Key Responsibilities & Departmental Leadership

Strategic Operations & Sales

• Full-Cycle Management: Oversee daily operations including sales, detailed event planning, on-site execution, and post-event analysis.

• Business Development: Identify market trends and competitor strategies to develop innovative event packages that attract new clients and drive repeat business.

• Financial Stewardship: Create and manage the departmental budget, ensuring all events are cost-effective and meet the hotel’s profitability targets.

• Compliance & Standards: Ensure all events adhere to hotel policies, safety procedures, and legal requirements while upholding the brand’s quality standards.

Leadership & Coordination

• Team Mentorship: Lead a team of catering and event professionals, providing the training, support, and guidance necessary to achieve high performance.

• Inter-Departmental Synergy: Collaborate with the Kitchen, Front Office, and Housekeeping teams to ensure total hotel coordination for large-scale events.

• Training: Conduct regular meetings to review upcoming event plans, solve logistical challenges, and refine departmental processes.

Client & Vendor Relations

• Primary Point of Contact: Serve as the lead liaison for clients, ensuring their needs are met before, during, and after their events.

• Stakeholder Networking: Build and maintain strong relationships with local vendors and industry partners; represent the hotel at networking events to promote catering services.

• Conflict Resolution: Address and resolve guest complaints or logistical issues with professional speed and a focus on “Service Recovery.”

Requirements & Qualifications

Core Competencies

• Leadership: Proven ability to manage and inspire a diverse team in a high-volume hospitality environment.

• Financial Literacy: Strong experience in budget creation, P&L management, and contract negotiation.

• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written skills; ability to present creative concepts to clients and technical directions to staff.

Candidate Profile

• Experience: Significant experience in catering sales and event management within a hotel setting is required.

• Innovation: A creative mindset for developing unique event themes and packages that stand out in the Phoenix market.

• Organization: Expert-level ability to maintain accurate records, contracts, and financial transactions.

Compensation & Benefits

• Location: Phoenix, AZ.

• Environment: A collaborative and inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity.

• Opportunity: A senior leadership role with the ability to significantly impact the hotel’s revenue and local reputation.

  The Organization & Culture

  In 2026, Holiday Inn, a flagship brand of IHG Hotels & Resorts, continues to define the “mainstream” hospitality experience in the Valley. The culture is anchored by IHG’s global purpose: “True Hospitality for Good.” In Phoenix, this manifests as a down-to-earth, reliable, and “people-first” environment. Employees often describe the workplace as having a “clear sense of purpose” and an energizing atmosphere, particularly for those who value independence and the opportunity to meet diverse personal goals. The local culture prioritizes “Room for You,” an employer brand focused on ensuring every team member feels welcomed, respected, and supported in their professional journey.

  The Phoenix Presence: Essential Connectivity

  Phoenix is a key growth market for IHG in 2026, with the city leading the U.S. in new hotel room openings. Holiday Inn’s footprint serves as a critical infrastructure for both business travelers and “Silicon Desert” professionals:

  • Holiday Inn & Suites Phoenix Airport North: Located at 1515 N. 44th Street, this resort-style property is a major hub. It features a massive 11,000 square feet of conference space, including the 3,700 sq. ft. Grand Ballroom. In 2026, it remains a favorite for corporate gatherings due to its 24-hour airport shuttle and proximity to the Light Rail.

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix Airport: Situated on East University Drive, this location caters to the “efficient traveler,” offering the brand’s signature “Express Start” breakfast and streamlined amenities for those on the move.

  • Regional Strategic Hub: Phoenix serves as a vital anchor for IHG’s “Essentials” portfolio. By 2026, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express account for a significant majority of IHG’s operating hotels in the region, providing a stable foundation for the company’s broader expansion into luxury and lifestyle brands.

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  Workplace & Strategic Highlights (2026)

  • Strategic 2026 Focus: “Journey to Tomorrow”

    • Sustainable Hospitality: As part of IHG’s 10-year action plan, Phoenix properties have transitioned to bulk amenities and eliminated single-use plastics. The Airport North location features 80% LED lighting and comprehensive water-efficient shower systems.

    • Inclusive Culture: A major 2026 goal is to champion a diverse culture where everyone can thrive. IHG is actively working to double the representation of under-represented groups in leadership roles across its Phoenix-managed assets.

  • 2026 Compensation & Roles (Phoenix Market):

    • Operational Roles: Room Attendants and Housekeeping staff in the Phoenix/Goodyear area typically see hourly rates between $15.50 and $17.50, reflecting competitive local market adjustments.

    • Guest Services: Front Desk Agents and Night Auditors in Phoenix earn approximately $18.00 to $21.00 per hour, often citing the “supportive management” as a key reason for retention.

    • Management: Salaries for Human Resource Managers and General Managers are competitive, with a focus on “room to grow” through IHG’s global internal transfer network.