Brian Walker
Detroit,MI
Summary
A Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) in the Hospitality Industry in a Management Capacity with distinguished performance in Operations, Meeting and Event Planning, Sales & Marketing and Food and Beverage.
Overview
1
1
Certification
8
8
years of post-secondary education
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Destination Services Manager
Visit Detroit
Detroit
12.2005 - 08.2026
- Managed daily operations, optimizing visitor experiences in Detroit area.
- Coordinated logistics for internal and external customers, ensuring seamless service delivery and coverage.
- Developed standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training programs for new employees, elevating service standards.
Senior Sales Manager
Marriott International, Inc.
Detroit, MI
05.2003 - 12.2005
- Led sales strategies to increase market share and drive revenue growth by proactively soliciting and managing high-revenue business opportunities, such as large corporate events and group bookings.
- Managed team performance through regular coaching and feedback sessions.
- Developed strong relationships with internal and external clients to enhance customer satisfaction.
Senior Event Manager
Marriott International, Inc.
Detroit, MI
11.1998 - 05.2003
- Planned and coordinated high-profile/large-scale meetings and conventions for diverse clientele.
- Managed internal, external and vendor relationships to ensure quality service delivery.
- Developed event budgets and monitored expenditures closely.
Senior Event Manager
Westin hotels and resorts
Detroit, MI
04.1995 - 11.1998
- Planned and coordinated large-scale events for diverse clientele.
- Managed internal, external and vendor relationships to ensure quality service delivery to the customer and operating departments.
- Developed event budgets and monitored expenditures closely.
Banquet Manager
Westin hotels and resorts
Detroit, MI
03.1992 - 04.1995
- Coordinated banquet events to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
- Managed operations and staff schedules and assignments for efficient event execution.
- Collaborated with kitchen, event management and sales teams responsible for leading event execution in order to uphold high service standards across all property functions.
Food and Beverage Manager
Westin hotels and resorts
Detroit, MI
10.1989 - 03.1992
- Managed daily food and beverage operations for hotel, as well as external guests.
- Coordinated menu planning to enhance guest dining experiences.
- Oversaw staff training, scheduling and development in service excellence standards.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI 06.1980 - 06.1988
Skills
- Client relationship management
- Project management
- Service management
- Standard operating procedures
- Strong communication/team-building skills
Certification
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)
Timeline
Senior Destination Services Manager
Visit Detroit
12.2005 - 08.2026
Senior Sales Manager
Marriott International, Inc.
05.2003 - 12.2005
Senior Event Manager
Marriott International, Inc.
11.1998 - 05.2003
Senior Event Manager
Westin hotels and resorts
04.1995 - 11.1998
Banquet Manager
Westin hotels and resorts
03.1992 - 04.1995
Food and Beverage Manager
Westin hotels and resorts
10.1989 - 03.1992
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Wayne State University
06.1980 - 06.1988