Food and Beverage Sales Executive

Job Description:

Company Description

At Sofitel London St James, we redefine luxury by treating a stay as more than just a temporary pause-it's an opportunity for guests to fall in love with a unique blend of refined luxury and playful indulgence. Our commitment to excellence transcends the ordinary, and we invite you to join a team that specialises in transforming stays into enchanting tales. We take immense pride in creating a playfully elegant and meaningful experience for both our guests and ourselves. Our commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values diversity, encourages professional growth, and recognises individual contributions ensures that each team member feels appreciated and empowered in their role. Apply now to embark on a career that transcends expectations and celebrates the art of hospitality.

Job Description

As a F&B Sales and Reservations Executive you will successfully coordinate all aspects of the food and beverage reservations and events process with the relevant outlets (Wild Honey St James, Bistrot at Wild Honey, The Rose Lounge, St James Bar, Terrace) including co-ordinating any special events (Christmas, New Year's Eve, Easter etc.). The role will also include proactively cross-selling all outlets, actively upselling experiences and menus, selling the private dining room of Wild Honey, maximising food and beverage revenue and above all else create renowned memorable experiences for our guests.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Administration:
* With support from the host team, enter, amend, confirm, cancel and manage all aspects of a reservation (emails, telephone etc) in 7Rooms and all other reservations platforms, ensuring that all accurate details are obtained and input accordingly and that any amendments are actioned as necessary and in a timely manner.
* Manage and configure 7Rooms and all other reservations platforms in liaison with the Head of Revenue, F&B Manager, and respective outlet managers.
* Quote appropriate menu, room hire and or minimum spend prices to obtain optimum yield.
* Ensure future reservations are carefully checked against correspondence to events happening in the hotel, and that any necessary adjustments are made and communicated to the relevant hotel departments (All reservations to be checked a week in advance on a daily basis).
* Ensure that all correspondence for reservations are dealt with within 24 hours (as timely as possible, depending on the business of the respective work period).
* With support and liaison from the respective outlet managers and Chefs, coordinate events and reservations' organisation.
* Prepare, update and distribute BEOs on a weekly basis.
* If necessary, coordinate with the respective outlet managers to take care of waitlist to maximise restaurant reservations, as well as manage no-show/cancellation fees and policies.
* Prepare contracts, booking guarantee forms and payment invoices when necessary.
Financial and Revenue Responsibilities:
* In conjunction with Food and Beverage outlet managers, set availability, turn times, and reservations flow to maximise yield.
* Generate and provide weekly forecasts, with the aim to achieve and exceed F&B outlets financial objectives and assist with the preparation of reporting F&B performance for Revenue Meetings and other forecasting purposes.
* In liaison with the sales department, create a corporate clientele list and communicate any seasonal deals, packages and upcoming F&B offers to local corporate in the aim to maximise revenue and sales.
Guest Service Responsibilities:
* Maintain knowledge of products, menus, promotions and communicate to the host and management team that may from time to time assist you.
* Maintain knowledge of the competitor set of various outlets and how our outlets are differentiated from them in order to demonstrate the benefit of dining with us, in liaison with respective outlet managers.
* Provide intuitive service, with absolute understanding of our guests needs to create exceptional service experiences, that result in lasting memories.
* Demonstrate genuine dedication to Sofitel London St James and show a commitment to consistent quality in our products and services.

Qualifications

* Previous experience in food & beverage sales, hospitality sales, or a similar commercial role.
* Strong knowledge of the hospitality industry, including restaurants, hotels, and event catering.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
* Ability to identify new business opportunities and develop long-term client relationships.
* Confident in conducting client meetings, presentations, and venue show-rounds.
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple accounts and enquiries simultaneously.
* Commercial awareness with an understanding of pricing, margins, and revenue management.
* Proactive, self-motivated, and target-driven approach to work.
* Ability to work collaboratively with operations, marketing, and events teams.
* Flexible approach with the ability to work occasional evenings or weekends when required.
* A passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional client experiences.

Additional Information

Discover a world of unparalleled perks tailored just for you:
* Competitive Salary, service charge, departmental incentives and a loyalty bonus of £1.300 per year.
* Employee Benefit Card - Discounted rates at Accor properties worldwide.
* Free Stays in the UK or Ireland (4 nights/year) - Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
* Sofitel Experience - Enjoy a luxurious night at our hotel, complete with a delightful breakfast.
* Complimentary Meals While on Duty.
* Special Rates in F&B, Rooms & Spa - Treat yourself to luxury at unbeatable prices.
* Be Part of the Largest Hospitality Group in Europe.
* Exceptional Training and Development Opportunities through Apprenticeship Program.
* Global Growth Opportunities.
* Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 GP Access - Your well-being is our priority.
* Social Events and Activities.
Bring passion and dedication to excellence, and we will recognise your contribution with a variety of benefits, rewards and development opportunities. We also offer a range of wellbeing initiatives, including apps with content to help you feel at your best. Join us, and you can thrive as an individual as well as being part of a supportive and inclusive team.
Let your passion shine, visit careers.accor.com