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Casino Convention Services Manager
Organizations, corporations, and associations often plan group meetings and annual conventions at casino hotels. These groups have a variety of needs and requirements. The person in charge of coordinating all the details for these groups is called the Convention Services Manager.
The individual has a wide array of duties. His or her job starts when a group is booked. The Convention Services Manager talks to the group’s representative or meeting planner to discuss special needs, such as display space, meeting rooms, stages, podiums, audiovisual equipment, food service, and break schedules. The Convention Services Manager also arranges for special permits from fire and/or health departments. The individual also may have to deal with the various unions whose members may work in a hotel setting. The Convention Services Manager is responsible for notifying other departments in the hotel of arrangements being made or requirements that must be met.
The Convention Services Manager directs workers in preparing special rooms for guests.
These may include meeting rooms, banquet halls, and convention rooms. The individual also supervises workers or exhibition companies in erecting displays and exhibits for conventions. The Convention Services Manager inspects rooms and displays to make sure they conform to the needs and desires of the group.
The Convention Services Manager may arrange publicity for the group and/or their meeting. The individual handles this function directly or assigns the task to the hotel’s public relations or publicity department. Convention Services Managers meet with the group’s representatives before and during their stay to assure that everything is going as scheduled and that any problems are taken care of. The Convention Services Manager may also contact the group’s representative after their stay to be sure the group was satisfied, helping to secure the group’s return business. Other duties of Convention Services Manager may include:
- Promoting good will between the hotel and the group
- Handling complaints and problems
- Arranging special functions
Convention Services Managers in casino hotels work on salary.
Individuals have annual earnings ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 or more. Factors affecting earnings include the geographic location, size, and prestige of the facility. Other variables include the experience and responsibilities of the individual. Those working in large casinos in the gambling capitals usually earn more than their counterparts in other hotels.
Employment prospects are fair for Convention Services Managers. Individuals can find employment in areas hosting casino hotels. The largest number of opportunities are available in areas with more casino hotels: Las Vegas, Reno, Laughlin, Lake Tahoe, Atlantic City, Biloxi, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Detroit. Other regions with land-based, riverboat, or Indian gaming facilities offer additional opportunities.
Convention Services Managers working in casino hotels can advance their careers in a number of ways. Individuals may find similar jobs in larger or more prestigious hotels, resulting in increased responsibilities and earnings. Depending on career aspirations, education, and experience, Convention Services Managers may also move on to positions in convention or group sales.
Education and training requirements vary from job to job.
For some positions, a high school diploma or its equivalent is required. For others, a college background or degree may be needed. Work experience is often accepted in lieu of education. Depending on the specific casino hotel, this job may require from three to 10 years’ experience working in a hotel or other area of the hospitality industry. Some people gain experience working in the convention services office in various positions, including assistant convention services manager. Others may have prior experience in other departments of the hotel. Individuals interested in learning more about careers in this area can contact the human resources departments of casino hotels. Other information may be available from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AH&LA).
Look for job advertisements
1. Jobs are often advertised in the classified sections of newspapers in areas hosting gaming. Look under classifications such as “Casino,” “Casino Hotels,” “Hotels,” “Convention Services,” “Convention Services Manager,” “Casino Hotel Opportunities,” or “Hospitality.”
2. If you are still in school, consider an internship offered by a hotel to obtain experience and make contacts.
3. Stop by the human resources departments of casino hotels to inquire about job openings.
4. Send your résumé to directors of human resources at casino hotels.
5. Look for new casino hotels that are under construction. Apply early.
6. Check out casino home pages to see if the casino hosts an employment site. Openings may be listed.