Special Events Manager
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About Orient Express
Artisan of travel since 1883, Orient Express sublimates the art of travel with luxury trains, hotels, and sailing yachts. The brand has launched its first hotel, Orient Express La Minerva, in Rome, and is expanding with upcoming properties including Orient Express Venezia at Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in 2026. Since 2022, Orient Express is part of Accor Group’s leading collection of luxury brands. Visit www.orient-express.com.
Job Description
As a Special Events Manager, you will orchestrate exceptional meetings, conferences, and social functions that reflect the prestige and elegance of our hotel. From the first client inquiry to the final guest farewell, you will ensure every detail is flawlessly executed, exceeding expectations and creating memorable experiences.
Key Responsibilities
* Serve as the primary liaison for clients, from contract handover through event completion.
* Build strong, long‑term relationships with corporate clients, event planners, and private hosts.
* Conduct venue tours, craft detailed proposals, and tailor event concepts to reflect each client’s vision.
* Anticipate guest needs and adapt services to deliver truly bespoke experiences.
* Oversee daily operations of all events, ensuring set‑ups, service, and timelines meet luxury standards.
* Lead pre‑service briefings and coordinate with Sales, Culinary, Stewarding, Housekeeping, and AV teams.
* Monitor floor plans and Banquet Event Orders, ensuring flawless execution and seamless communication.
* Maintain an active presence during events, addressing client requests and resolving issues swiftly.
* Lead, motivate, and mentor event staff to deliver service excellence with grace and precision.
* Foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
* Ensure staff are equipped with proper training, uniforms, and resources, upholding the highest presentation standards.
* Manage event budgets, costs, and billing with accuracy and transparency.
* Support sales initiatives by identifying upselling opportunities and promoting hotel event offerings.
* Monitor staffing levels to ensure both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
* Ensure strict adherence to food hygiene, health, and safety standards.
* Anticipate potential hazards, implementing proactive measures for guest and staff safety.
* Stay informed on industry trends, technologies, and best practices, incorporating them into service delivery.
Qualifications
* 3–5 years of experience in luxury hotel event management or group coordination.
* Proven expertise in delivering high‑profile meetings, events, and social functions.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams.
* Exceptional communication, problem‑solving, and organizational abilities.
* Advanced knowledge of event management systems (Opera preferred) and Microsoft Office.
* Professional appearance, polished demeanor, and the ability to remain composed under pressure.
* Fluency in English and Italian required; additional languages highly valued.
* Previous experience within a luxury hotel environment working with LQA, Forbes 5* or equivalent standards.
* Flexible availability to support a 24‑hour operation when needed.
Benefits
* A competitive package (base salary and yearly bonus)
* Medical insurance integrating Collective Labor Agreement with extended coverage for family
* Ticket Restaurant allowance
* Annual leave
* Employee benefit card (Heartist® Program) offering discounted rates at all Accor locations and partner venues worldwide.
* Learning & development opportunities to grow within the property and globally.
* Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: inclusive hiring and promotion.
Seniority Level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type
Full‑time
Job Function
Management and Manufacturing; Industries: Hospitality
Referral Information
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