Christine Dunstan
Berlin,MD
Summary
Dynamic Sales & Catering Manager with a proven track record at Residence Inn By Marriott, adept in event planning and client relationship building. Excelled in boosting sales through strategic planning and exceptional service, managing events up to 800 guests, and significantly contributing to community through non-profit events and fundraising. Skilled in Salesforce and team leadership, consistently exceeding performance goals.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales & Catering Manager
Residence Inn By Marriot
05.2020 - Current
- Successfully manage a diverse range of events including weddings, corporate functions, and special occasions from as small as 10 people to as large as 800 people, consistently exceeding client expectations.
- Work with F&B Director, Chef(s), Sales Director and group point of contact to execute event setups, floor and table layouts, guest numbers, executions, meals, staff and budgeting for all events, hire and train both permanent and temporary staff and overall catering needs.
- Proven track record of increasing revenue through strategic planning, exceptional customer service and effective relationship management.
- Develop and maintain relationships with clients, ensuring exceptional service and repeat business.
- Prepare and assist in preparing proposals and contracts, ensuring compliance with company policies.
- Meet and exceed all performance goals each year, even in covid restriction years, while staying under or within department budget.
- Strengthen client relationships with regular follow-ups, ensuring timely renewals and upselling opportunities.
- Participate in around 10 non-profit events annually to raise awareness and funds to give back to the community.
Eagle Award Senior Account Executive
Hearst Corporation
10.2009 - 06.2014
- First employee in 20 years, since current Sales Manager (2010), to receive the Salesperson of the Year - Hearst's Eagle Award, for one of their 2 radio stations in the Country, as a first year rookie salesperson.
- Utilized CRM tools effectively to manage client information and track progress on accounts, leading to more accurate forecasting and pipeline management.
- Increased account retention by building strong relationships with clients and addressing their needs promptly.
- Negotiated contracts that maximized profit margins while maintaining competitive pricing for clients.
- Found new ways to use digital advertising in every pitch to accentuate traditional on-air radio and became highest selling digital AE.
- Mentored junior account executives, fostering a positive work environment and encouraging professional growth.
Sales & Marketing Coordinator
Towson University
09.2005 - 10.2009
- Managed 70 Student Ambassadors, 5 Team Leaders and 3 Undergraduate Marketing Assistants to construct new methods of training to improve tour route, distribute information and manage student ambassador duties more efficiently.
- Established long-term partnerships with local businesses, as well as varying alumni businesses country-wide and key industry influencers that further strengthened the university's position within the market.
- Conducted market research to identify trends and competitor strategies, informing adjustments to our marketing strategies in regards to both freshmen and transfer recruitment.
- Set up and managed logistics for each recruitment event and special events, while managing monthly budget and expenses of payroll, supplies and event costs.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mass Communication
Towson University
Towson University12-2006
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Towson University
Towson, MD12-2006
Skills
- Event planning proficiency
- Sales presentations
- Sales Growth
- Fundraising
- Marketing & Data Analysis and Research
- Client Relationship Building
- Staff/Team-building leadership
- Direct mail campaigns
- File management
- Food safety
- Staff supervision
- Campaign & Project Management
- Staff scheduling
- Catering Management
- Budget Management
- Negotiation
- Salesforce
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Canva
- Digital Marketing Event Management Software
- POS Systems for retail management
- Social Media Marketing
Timeline
Sales & Catering Manager
Residence Inn By Marriot
05.2020 - Current
Eagle Award Senior Account Executive
Hearst Corporation
10.2009 - 06.2014
Sales & Marketing Coordinator
Towson University
09.2005 - 10.2009
Bachelor of Science - Mass Communication
Towson University
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Towson University
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