Abigail Benavides
AUSTIN
Summary
Detail-oriented and creatively-driven manager with a wealth of experience in the hospitality sector, showcasing adept leadership skills. Known for meticulously enhancing productivity and elevating customer satisfaction through innovative strategies, simultaneously driving revenue growth. Devoted to refining operational procedures and harnessing the full potential of employee talent to achieve exceptional results.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
EXECUTIVE MEETINGS MANAGER/SALES MANAGER
Pacific Hospitality Group
01.2023 - Current
- 2023 Group Meetings Manager of the Year for all Pacific Hospitality Group
- Achieved 130% of 2023 sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Brought Abbott Laboratories account from 300 room nights to over 2,000 room nights.
- Maintain, prospect, independently solicit and book Food and Beverage business and Group guestrooms
- Work with Senior Management, Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director to determine menus, planning and pricing when prospecting and quoting events
- Quoted and negotiated guest room rates and food and beverage pricing with clients, draw up contracts, collect deposits and close transactions
- Coordinated with other departments to ensure that there is knowledge of future group and event bookings
SENIOR SALES MANAGER
C-12
07.2022 - 01.2023
- Increased overall sales revenue by implementing effective sales strategies and building strong client relationships
- Solicited new accounts to meet and exceed revenue goals
- Developed a complete knowledge of company policies and SOP's, and ensure knowledge of and adherence to those policies by the sales team
- Monitored production of all top accounts and evaluate trends within assigned market
- Integrated sales software
- Developed systems of communications for operational departments
- Successfully secured pre opening contracts for group business and accounts
GROUP AND BUSINESS TRAVEL SALES MANAGER
HRI Properties
09.2021 - 07.2022
- Took on group sales in February and exceeded 160% of Q1 sales goal
- Developed all accounts and set up companies for growth, increased travel by 46%
- Developed target markets, representing private and public sector clients, and routinely met engagement and revenue goals
- Tracked all accounts daily including Consortia, ESP, and Government segments
- Created procedures and systems for department and coordinated systems communication in other department
- Conducted research, surveys, personal investigation and studied market place and territory in order to effectively capitalize on the hotel's strengths and competitors' weaknesses and capabilities
- Work with clients directly to form Banquet Event Orders within the guidelines of the policies and procedures allowing the group to accomplish their goals
DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
HIT Athletic
03.2021 - 09.2021
- Developed comprehensive sales plans for business growth, resulting in significant market share expansion.
- Designed promotional materials, including collateral and print
- Developed customer profiles and maintained an effective trace system to best meet client needs
- Applied member referrals, corporate partnerships, territory outreach, and telephone inquiries strategies
- Devised effective monthly promotions and outbound events
- Maintained a positive atmosphere where co-workers, members, and guests felt always welcomed
SALES MANAGER
AT&T Hotel and Conference Center
10.2018 - 10.2020
- Repeatedly exceeded over 120% of quarterly sales goal
- Created the Executive Meetings Manager System (EMMS) to properly communicate with clients and operations team in a timely and effect manner
- Solicited and negotiated group accommodations often with meeting space and catering considerations
- Prioritized customer satisfaction by addressing sales and operational needs
- Prepared of proposals and/or contracts for prospective clients
- Organized regular sales meetings to review progress, share best practices, and set achievable targets for continued success.
- Conducted event specific site inspections with potential customers to ensure quality and satisfaction.
SALES & CATERING COORDINATOR/SALES REPRESENTATIVE
Remington Hotels
03.2016 - 10.2018
- Managed and coordinate all conferences, meetings, group functions and group activities
- Analyzed catering orders and liaised with staff to set up equipment, supplies and menus to meet client expectations.
- Ensured quality event delivery in accordance with contracted implements
- Engaged in strategic planning to enhance sales and business goals
- Assisted in overall supervision of the food and beverage department
- Improved client satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and providing excellent customer service.
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
OneGirl NY
11.2015 - 03.2016
- Supported operations of a start-up nonprofit organization whose primary charge was the personal growth and empowerment of young women
- Developed an organizational structure and strategic plan to accomplish programmatic goals
- Managed website development and social media sites while coordinating marketing campaigns and outreach events.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre
Texas State University
01.2011
High School Diploma -
Permian High School
05.2005
Skills
- Meeting facilitation
- Creativity and Adaptability
- Critical Thinking
- Decision-Making
- Events logistics management
- Contract Negotiation
- Partnership Development
- New Business Development
Timeline
EXECUTIVE MEETINGS MANAGER/SALES MANAGER
Pacific Hospitality Group
01.2023 - Current
SENIOR SALES MANAGER
C-12
07.2022 - 01.2023
GROUP AND BUSINESS TRAVEL SALES MANAGER
HRI Properties
09.2021 - 07.2022
DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
HIT Athletic
03.2021 - 09.2021
SALES MANAGER
AT&T Hotel and Conference Center
10.2018 - 10.2020
SALES & CATERING COORDINATOR/SALES REPRESENTATIVE
Remington Hotels
03.2016 - 10.2018
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
OneGirl NY
11.2015 - 03.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre
Texas State University
High School Diploma -
Permian High School