SUMMARY
The Banquet Manager is responsible for the overall planning, direction, and coordination of banquet operations to ensure the highest level of guest satisfaction and service excellence. This role leads the banquet team in executing events, managing financial performance, enforcing service standards, and cultivating strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal departments.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Guest Service & Experience
- Champion guest service standards and ensure the banquet department consistently delivers exceptional hospitality.
- Handle client relations and resolve concerns efficiently, ensuring satisfaction before, during, and after events.
- Lead pre- and post-conference meetings with clients and internal departments to align expectations and performance.
Banquet Operations
- Direct and oversee all aspects of banquet service including all aspects of banquet setup, service, audio-visual needs, event execution, staff supervision, scheduling, and post-event breakdown.
- Review and approve Banquet Event Orders (BEOs); ensure all team members understand expectations and execute flawlessly.
- Collaborate with culinary and purchasing teams to ensure timely preparation and delivery of food, beverage, and event-related items.
- Maintain safety, cleanliness, and sanitation standards in all banquet areas, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Leadership & Team Management
- Hire, train, mentor, and evaluate banquet staff, fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, and growth.
- Develop staffing plans based on business demands and forecasted events; manage labor to meet budgeted goals.
- Conduct team briefings and walkthroughs; ensure all team members are prepared, uniformed, and equipped for success.
- Provide coaching and corrective actions when needed; conduct performance reviews and assist with career development.
Financial & Administrative Responsibilities
- Manage departmental budgets including labor, supplies, and equipment maintenance.
- Analyze costs and identify efficiencies to maintain profitability while preserving service quality.
- Assist with month-end inventory, billing accuracy, and reconciliation of banquet-related charges.
- Maintain accurate records of events, labor costs, and service evaluations for continuous improvement.
Innovation & Standards
- Drive creativity and innovation in banquet presentation and service.
- Stay informed of industry trends and incorporate best practices to elevate service and competitiveness.
- Enforce company policies, procedures, and appearance standards across the banquet department.
Other
- Maintain regular attendance and availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays as required by event scheduling.
- Collaborate across departments to support overall property goals and cross-functional success.
- Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.
QUALIFICATIONS
- 5+ years of progressive banquet or event management experience in a full-service hotel, convention center, or upscale venue.
- Proven ability to lead teams in high-volume, high-expectation environments.
- In-depth knowledge of BEOs, event setups, service execution, and hospitality best practices.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, POS systems, and event management software.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
RAMP Certification (or equivalent as required by state/local law)
PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods and lift/carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
- Requires frequent bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and lifting.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with fluctuating business volumes.