About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) stands as one of the largest lodging franchisors worldwide, with a robust portfolio exceeding 7,400 hotels and over 625,000 rooms across 45 countries and territories. As a challenger in the upscale segment and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice Hotels offers 22 diverse brands, from full-service upper upscale properties to economy options. Iconic brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Red, Park Plaza, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson cater to every traveler's needs. The award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program and co-brand credit card enhance member experiences with fast reward nights and personalized perks. At Choice Hotels, cultural values—Welcome and Respect Everyone, Be Bold, Be Quick, Listen, Be Curious, and Show Integrity—drive loyalty, growth, and the hospitality spirit. Managed hotels like Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago Downtown exemplify premium service in prime locations.

Role Overview

Step into the prestigious role of Director of Catering at the Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago Downtown, an architectural gem in the heart of Chicago's vibrant downtown within the iconic Aqua Tower. As a seasoned hotelier sales professional, you will lead events and catering operations, curating extraordinary experiences that define upscale hospitality. This full-time position offers a starting salary of $115,000 - $120,000 annually, with potential upside to $132,000 based on performance. Reporting to hotel leadership, you will spearhead strategies to boost banquet and catering revenues while embodying Choice Hotels' commitment to excellence.

Why This Role Matters

In Chicago's competitive hospitality market, the Director of Catering is pivotal in driving revenue growth, fostering client relationships, and ensuring seamless event execution. Leverage your expertise to position Radisson Blu as the go-to venue for corporate events, weddings, and galas.

Key Responsibilities

The Director of Catering serves as the authority on banquet and catering business strategies, aligning with Choice Hotels' growth objectives.

• Develop and implement strategies for banquet and catering revenues, setting monthly, quarterly, and annual goals.
• Build and nurture customer relationships to meet forecast targets.
• Distribute regular budget and forecast reports for the department.
• Lead, onboard, coach, and train catering sales and convention services managers.
• Achieve revenue and customer service goals through innovative sales and servicing strategies.
• Coordinate across departments to exceed client expectations before, during, and after events.
• Represent the hotel at networking events, community initiatives, and industry functions to advocate for the brand.

Qualifications & Requirements

Ideal candidates bring proven expertise in high-volume catering environments.

• Minimum five years of catering sales and convention services management experience, preferably in Chicago's local hotel industry.
• High school diploma required; bachelor's degree in hospitality, business, or related field preferred.
• Excellent negotiation, presentation, creative problem-solving, and communication skills (written and oral).
• Strong conflict resolution abilities with guests, supervisors, and team members.
• Collaborative mindset for effective teamwork across hotel departments.
• Physical capability to stand, sit, walk for extended periods; lift up to 75 lbs.; and use office equipment.
• Active participation in industry organizations is a plus.
• Commitment to Choice’s Cultural Values to inspire loyalty and growth.

All offers are conditional on background checks, E-Verify, and legal work authorization in the United States. Choice Hotels is an equal opportunity employer.

Benefits & Perks

Choosing Choice Hotels means accessing unparalleled perks tailored for hospitality professionals.

• Exclusive employee discounts on thousands of hotels worldwide, including Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Radisson Blu, and more.
• Comprehensive full-time benefits: health, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, auto insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program, employer-paid accident insurance, and HSA contributions.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan to secure your future.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within a global franchisor.

Career Growth

Choice Hotels invests in your success with robust training, sales coaching, and leadership development. Excel as Director of Catering and advance to senior roles like Vice President of Sales or General Manager positions across Radisson Blu, Quality Inn, or Comfort Inn properties. Our managed portfolio offers diverse pathways in upscale, midscale, and extended-stay segments, fostering long-term growth in the dynamic hospitality industry.

Why Join Choice Hotels

Join a proven leader challenging the upscale market while dominating midscale and extended stay. Work in Chicago's skyline-defining Radisson Blu Aqua, surrounded by cultural landmarks. Benefit from a supportive culture emphasizing integrity, curiosity, and bold action. With brands like Radisson, Comfort Inn, and Quality Inn, Choice Hotels offers stability, innovation, and global reach. Inspire loyalty, drive revenue, and thrive in an environment where hospitality spirit meets professional ambition.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the salary range?
A: Starting at $115,000 - $120,000 annually, with estimated upside to $132,000 based on performance.

Q: Are hotel discounts available?
A: Yes, enjoy discounts on thousands of Choice Hotels properties, including Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Radisson brands.

Q: What experience is required?
A: At least five years in catering sales and convention services, ideally in Chicago hotels.

Q: Is relocation assistance provided?
A: Not specified; local candidates preferred for this Chicago role.

Q: How does Choice Hotels support career growth?
A: Through leadership training, coaching, and opportunities across 22 brands in 45 countries.

Q: What are the physical demands?
A: Standing/walking for long periods, lifting up to 75 lbs., and using office equipment.