STEPHANIE MONTAVON
Delmont
Summary
Dynamic leader in catering and event planning, recognized for developing innovative proposals that drive client engagement and satisfaction. Proven ability to strategically manage staff and vendor relationships, ensuring flawless execution of events while maximizing profitability and enhancing market presence.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Catering
Tryp by Wyndham Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
02.2023 - Current
- Created tailored catering proposals that addressed client needs for diverse events.
- Coordinated menus and service styles with culinary teams and clients.
- Oversaw budget allocations for catering projects and services.
- Set catering budgets and goals, evaluated success through analytics and order tracker, and monitored catering trends with a focus on quality and food cost controls.
- Cultivated catering market segments, established new customer relationships, and strengthened existing partnerships.
- Conducted site inspections to assess event logistics and requirements.
- Trained team members on service standards and event protocols.
- Developed and maintained daily revenue forecasts to guide business decisions and improve financial performance
Owner- Event Planner
Bold and Brave Events
01.2017 - 10.2018
- Coordinated vendor contracts and managed relationships to ensure smooth event execution.
- Developed creative themes and layouts for diverse wedding styles and client preferences.
- Managed timelines and schedules to ensure all aspects of wedding planning were on track.
- Collaborated with couples to tailor services, enhancing overall wedding experience.
- Oversaw budgeting processes, ensuring effective allocation of resources for events.
- Communicated with clients across event planning and execution to deliver exceptional customer satisfaction.
- Resolved day-of issues with innovative solutions to ensure successful event execution.
Catering Sales Manager
Pittsburgh Marriott City Center
04.2014 - 01.2017
- Secured significant new business and retained repeat customers for catering service through effective sales calls, networking, advertising, and social media.
- Developed and implemented strategic sales plans to increase profits and maximize customer satisfaction.
- Continuously met or exceeded corporate sales goals for annual and quarterly timelines.
- Identified new revenue sources by cross-selling hotel amenities, including audio and visual equipment rentals and meeting room reservations.
- Prepared detailed proposals outlining menu options, costs, delivery times, payment terms.
- Monitored budgets closely to ensure profitability on each event.
- Conducted market research and analyzed trends to identify target markets and monitor competitor activities.
- Resolved any customer complaints quickly and professionally in order to maintain positive relationships with clients.
Catering Sales Manager
DoubleTree By Hilton
11.2009 - 04.2014
- Coordinated event logistics, achieving seamless execution and high guest satisfaction.
- Conducted site visits with clients to showcase venue capabilities and offerings.
- Oversaw budget preparation and expense management for all catered events.
- Facilitated client communication with hotel departments to ensure successful event planning.
- Developed and significantly grew assigned territory using strong engagement and marketing skills.
- Increased sales volume by providing targeted support to both new and inactive customers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Management
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, Pennsylvania12-2008
Associates - Hotel and Restaurant Management
Community College of Allegheny County
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania05-2007
Skills
- Event planning
- Booking optimization
- Management expertise
- Collaborative leadership
- Customer relations experience
- Conflict handling
- Interpersonal communication
Certification
- R.A.M.P
- Supervision In Hospitality
- Dean's List (7)
- C.A.R.E. (for gaming operations)
- Planning and Control for Food and Beverage Operations
- Managing Front Office Operations
- Hospitality Sales and Marketing
- T.I.P.S.
Communication Skills
- Served as a leader and conducted staff meetings
- Superior interaction with customers to fulfill every guests expectations
- Persuaded customers into up selling a product to increase profit margins
- Excellent knowledge on how to solve a problem at the source
Accomplishments
- Manager of the Quarter- 3x
- 2025 Sales Manager of the Year Recognition with Greater Pittsburgh Hotel Association
- Former President of Meeting Planner International, Pittsburgh Chapter- March 2016-January 2018
- Current Vice President of Education Event- MPI Pittsburgh Chapter Board of Directors Dec 2024-Current
Timeline
Director of Catering
Tryp by Wyndham Pittsburgh
02.2023 - Current
Owner- Event Planner
Bold and Brave Events
01.2017 - 10.2018
Catering Sales Manager
Pittsburgh Marriott City Center
04.2014 - 01.2017
Catering Sales Manager
DoubleTree By Hilton
11.2009 - 04.2014
Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Management
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Associates - Hotel and Restaurant Management
Community College of Allegheny County