Caroline Bhatia
Summary
Proven account manager with a strong focus on building lasting relationships and consistently achieving goals through collaboration, integrity, and hard work. Deep understanding of operations allows for cohesive work with cross-functional teams to meet client needs. Problem-solving skills are demonstrated by successfully turning a major account challenge into an opportunity, resulting in a remarkable revenue increase. Recognized for effectively managing difficult conversations and negotiating successful outcomes through clear and empathetic communication. Consistently exceeded sales targets, achieving 112% at Marriott, 103% at Omni, and an impressive 135% at The Capital Grille. Passion lies in driving revenue growth while maintaining client satisfaction and upholding business integrity.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Manager, Donor Relations
Adult & Teen Challenge
06.2024 - 01.2025
- Generated $40,000 in new revenue within the first five months (11% above the budgeted revenue)
- Established key community relationships, securing grants from the City of Taunton, Bristol County District Attorney, and local Credit Unions/Foundations.
- Chosen as the non-profit beneficiary for the Taunton Area Chamber of Commerce annual Holiday Party.
- Secured invitation for center Director to appear as keynote speaker at the Anthony F. Cordeiro Charitable Foundation Gala, leading to further grant funding opportunities for both women's and men's recovery homes.
- Actively engaged in the local Chamber of Commerce and Taunton Area Substance Use Taskforce.
Vice President of Membership & Business Development
RI Hospitality Association
04.2021 - 09.2024
- Increased number of new members by 34% YOY in first full year on job
- Grew membership revenue for 2023 by 23% by increasing membership dues and adding 190 new members since inception of position
- Reached a 95% retention rate in first 18 months on job
- Optimized internal systems and software tools for more efficient tracking of member data, communications, and interactions.
- Strengthened relationships with members by facilitating networking opportunities at events, workshops, webinars, and meetings.
Business Travel Sales Manager
Providence Marriott Hotel
08.2019 - 03.2020
- Increased business travel sales by implementing effective strategies and building strong client relationships, achieved 112% of revenue goal within six (6) months.
- Negotiated and secured 6% year over year (YOY) room rate increase (2x industry average) with top three (3) accounts
- Increased largest account revenue by 18% (YOY) compared to competitive growth set of just 1%
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions for complex travel requirements, ensuring seamless experiences for clients.
Business Travel Sales Manager
Omni Providence Hotel
08.2018 - 08.2019
- Developed relationships with 3 new companies with extended stay needs, generating an additional $135K in business travel revenue.
- Identified and secured new business opportunities, including small, local, and extended-stay accounts. resulting in business travel segment exceeding sales goals for the first time in over 12 months.
- Partnered with Revenue and Sales teams to implement Consortia promotions, driving a 128% YOY increase in room nights.
- Collaborated with Operations to gather client insights, leading to new accounts, increased loyalty, and additional revenue from existing clients.
- Created and launched successful programs, such as the "Company of the Month" promotion, boosting revenue and brand loyalty.
Sales Manager
The Capital Grille
06.2013 - 03.2015
- Exceeded sales goals by 35% by creating a new stream of business, created and implemented new strategies to maximize revenue.
- Booked and executed high-end on and off-site events for The New England Patriots, The Boston Celtics, Boston The Bruins, 98.5 The Sports Hub radio station, Merrill Lynch, Michael Kors and Anthropologie
- Handled guest relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
VIP Manager & Assistant Front Office Manager
DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia-Valley Forge
12.2011 - 06.2013
- Developed VIP recognition program property-wide for Hilton Honors Members, VIPs, and top accounts
- Created guest relationship standards for the hotel's largest account worth $600,000, this model of service has become a standard used by the account with all hotel partnerships across America
- Trained new staff on VIP management techniques, enhancing overall performance levels and customer satisfaction.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration & Biblical Studies
Cairn University
Langhorne, PA12-2011
Skills
- Strategic planning
- Business development
- Membership growth
- Building relationships
- Developing Revenue Streams
- Reaching goals
- Problem solving
- Cross-functional collaboration
Accomplishments
- Nominated for "40 Under 40" (2023)
- “Sales Star of the Week” (3 times, 2019, 2020)
- First place, Sales Blitz (2019)
- Manager of the Quarter runner-up (2018, 2019, 2013)
- Employee of the Month (August 2012)
Timeline
Senior Manager, Donor Relations
Adult & Teen Challenge
06.2024 - 01.2025
Vice President of Membership & Business Development
RI Hospitality Association
04.2021 - 09.2024
Business Travel Sales Manager
Providence Marriott Hotel
08.2019 - 03.2020
Business Travel Sales Manager
Omni Providence Hotel
08.2018 - 08.2019
Sales Manager
The Capital Grille
06.2013 - 03.2015
VIP Manager & Assistant Front Office Manager
DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia-Valley Forge
12.2011 - 06.2013
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration & Biblical Studies
Cairn University