Groups & Conference Agent - Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Menlyn_SA

Protea Hotels by Marriott®; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Protea Hotels by Marriott® is seeking a Group and Conference Agent in Pretoria to drive group bookings and conference business. You will proactively secure new business, convert enquiries into confirmed bookings, and manage event logistics to ensure guest satisfaction and revenue.

You will respond to group and event enquiries with tailored proposals, coordinate with F&B, Front Office, and other departments, and maintain accurate function sheets and reports.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in conferencing, group sales, or events coordination within hospitality.
• Proven ability to convert leads into confirmed sales.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational abilities.
• Flexible to work after-hours for events when needed.

Responsibilities

• Respond to group, conferencing, and event enquiries with tailored proposals.
• Coordinate with departments (F&B, Front Office, Housekeeping, Banqueting, AV) for seamless delivery.
• Prepare function sheets, rooming lists, and event resumes; maintain accurate records.
• Manage contracts, deposits, billing, and post-event reconciliation per policy.
• Build relationships with clients for repeat business and referrals.

Skills

Lead conversion

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation

Attention to detail

Multitasking

MS Office & PMS

Education

Hospitality diploma/degree advantageous

Tools

Microsoft Office

PMS/Event platforms

Job description

Additional Information

Job Number 26134668

Job Category Reservations

Location Summit Place Precinct, 221 Garsfontein Road, Menlyn, Pretoria Gaute 0181, South AfricaVIEW ON MAP

Schedule Full Time

Located Remotely? N

Position Type Non-Management

Position Summary

The Group and Conference Agent plays a key role in both the acquisition and coordination of group bookings and conference business. This role is responsible for proactively securing new business, converting enquiries into confirmed bookings, and managing all event-related logistics to ensure exceptional guest experiences and maximum revenue generation for the hotel.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Business Development & Sales Conversion

• Proactively respond to group, conferencing, and event enquiries with tailored proposals.
• Actively pursue new group and conferencing leads through telesales, referrals, and networking.
• Secure business through timely follow-up, professional communication, and compelling presentations.
• Convert tentative enquiries into confirmed bookings through effective negotiation and upselling.
• Maintain a clear pipeline of leads, prospects, and conversions in the hotel systems.

Client Liaison & Event Planning

• Engage with clients to understand their vision and specific requirements for each event.
• Conduct professional site inspections, proposal walkthroughs, and pre-event meetings.
• Offer creative and practical solutions to enhance the client’s experience and event value.

Coordination & Internal Communication

• Prepare and distribute accurate function sheets, rooming lists, and event resumes to relevant departments.
• Coordinate operational delivery across departments (F&B, Front Office, Housekeeping, Banqueting, AV).
• Act as the key contact during events to ensure real-time problem solving and client support.

Administration

• Manage contracts, deposits, billing, and post-event reconciliation in line with company policies.
• Ensure all administrative records are accurate and up-to-date in hotel systems.
• Track and report on sales conversions, confirmed revenue, and event feedback.

Post-Event Engagement & Client Retention

• Conduct post-event follow-ups and solicit feedback to drive continuous improvement.
• Build lasting relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.

Skills & Competencies Required

• Proven ability to convert leads into confirmed sales
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and influencing skills
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational abilities
• Strong multitasking and problem-solving under pressure
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and PMS/event platforms.
• Ability to work flexibly, including after-hours for events when needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years in conferencing, group sales, or events coordination within hospitality
• Track record of securing and growing conferencing or group business
• Diploma or degree in Hospitality, Events, or related field is advantageous

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated.Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.

Protea Hotels by Marriott® is the leading hospitality brand in Africa and one of the most widely recognized hospitality brands on the continent, with over 60 hotels across South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Tanzania and Uganda. If you have a passion for delivering every guest a personalized service experience and desire to be part of the ‘Coolest Hotel Brand in South Africa’, join the Protea Hotels by Marriott® team today! In joining Protea Hotels, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.