F&B Development Manager-Reservations & Engagement

DescriptionJOB SUMMARYBuilds a proactive guest-forward restaurant booking culture and enhances conversion through in-service presence and strategic guest interaction. Area of focus: Reservations table strategy guest greeting pre-arrival communication F&Bcross-promotionSCOPE / BUSINESS CONTEXTA Full Time/Part Time position based at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Hotel.Number of Direct Reports Based on operation JW Marriott MarquisTitles of Direct Reports - Based on operation JW Marriott MarquisCANDIDATE PROFILEEEducation and ExperienceHigh school diploma or GED; 4 year experience in the food and beverage culinary event management or related professional area. OR2-year degree from an accredited university in Food Service Management Hotel and Restaurant Management Hospitality Business Administration or related major; 3 year experience in the food and beverage culinary event management or related professional area.CORE WORK ACTIVITIESReservation Management & OptimizationOversee the end-to-end reservations process across all dining venues ensuring optimal capacity utilization and guest flow.Leverage reservation platforms to manage guest profiles dining preferences and table availability in real-timeMonitor and analyze reservation trends to adjust strategies for peak periods special events and demand forecasting.Lead overbooking strategies and waitlist handling to maximize revenue without compromising guest experience.Table Strategy & Seating PlansDevelop and implement dynamic table allocation strategies aligned with business goals VIP priorities and guest preferences.Collaborate with floor managers to ensure daily seating charts are accurate and reflective of operational priorities.Utilize data analytics to assess table turnover dwell time and occupancy refining layout and seating policies for profitability and guest satisfactionCoordinate with culinary and service teams to align pacing and seating with kitchen throughput.Guest Greeting & Arrival ExperienceDesign arrival protocols that ensure a seamless and personalized welcome aligned with Forbes service standards.Train host and reception teams on greeting standards tone body language and handling special occasions or VIPs.Implement technology-driven solutions to elevate the sense of welcome and belonging.Ensure consistency and warmth in the transition from arrival to table seating.Pr-Arrival Communication & PersonalizationDevelop standard pre-arrival communication touchpoints to confirm reservations and capture guest preferences or dietary restrictions.Personalize guest communication based on booking history special occasions and loyalty profiles.Collaborate with marketing team to craft engaging brand-aligned pre-arrival messaging templates.Monitor response times and effectiveness of pre-arrival engagement to ensure high guest conversion and satisfaction rates.F&B Cross-Promotion & Upselling StrategyIntegrate F&B promotions tasting menus events or seasonal offerings into the reservation and pre-arrival communication flow.Train reservationists and greeters in Forbes-level upselling techniquesemphasizing value exclusivity and personalization.Partner with the culinary mixology and marketing teams to schedule and promote cross-outlet initiatives driving multi-venue engagement.Monitor conversion rates of promotional campaigns linked to reservations and guest feedback.Guest Data Management & CRM IntegrationEnsure accurate and consistent data capture in guest profiles to support service personalization loyalty programs and marketing segmentation.Analyze guest feedback and behavior to identify areas for service refinement or promotional targeting.Ensure compliance with data privacy and consent regulations across all engagement channels.Cross-Departmental CollaborationLiaise regularly with Sales Marketing Culinary Events and Revenue teams to align on strategies that affect reservations and guest experienceServe as a strategic partner to the F&B Director and outlet managers driving initiatives that enhance both operational efficiency and brand perception.Champion innovation and continuous improvement across departments to meet Forbes Five-StarMANAGEMENT COMPETENCIESLeadershipAdaptability - Determines how change impacts self and others; displays flexibility in adjusting priorities; and communicates both the reasons for change and how it impacts the workplace.Communication - Customizes approach to conveying complex information and ideas to others in a convincing and engaging manner; appropriately interprets verbal and non-verbal behavior; and models active listening tonsure understanding.Problem Solving and Decision Making - Models and coaches others on breaking complex issues into manageable parts identifying and evaluating alternatives and their implications before making decisions and involving and gaining agreement from others when making key decisions.Professional Demeanor - Exhibits behavioral styles that convey confidence and command respect from others; makes a go