Event Planning & Services Manager

The Insignia Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott; Sarnia; On-site; CAD 48,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A boutique hotel in Sarnia is seeking an Event Planning & Services Manager to oversee banquet and meeting spaces. This role requires 2-3 years of experience in event management, strong food & beverage skills, and exceptional guest service. Key responsibilities include client communication, event coordination, and budget management. A competitive salary and benefits including health coverage and professional development are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Health coverage

Professional development

Discounted or free food

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in event management or banquet operations.
• Strong food & beverage background.
• Proficiency with Marriott CI/TY and hotel management systems.
• Exceptional guest service and interpersonal skills.
• Highly organized with attention to detail.
• Proven leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the main contact for event clients.
• Utilize Marriott CI/TY for bookings and contracts.
• Develop and distribute Banquet Event Orders.
• Source and coordinate external vendors.
• Oversee on-site execution of events.
• Monitor event budgets and billing.

Skills

Event Management

Food & Beverage Coordination

Guest Service

Communication

Organizational Skills

Tools

Marriott CI/TY

Event Management Systems

Job description

About The Insignia Hotel

The Insignia Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio property by Marriott, is an 84-room boutique, full-service hotel located in the heart of Sarnia. Designed with modern elegance and upscale amenities, the hotel offers thoughtfully curated guest experiences, stylish accommodations, and versatile event spaces ideal for meetings, social gatherings, and celebrations. As part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, The Insignia combines the charm of an independent boutique hotel with the reliability of a global brand.

Culinary Partnership

Events at The Insignia Hotel are elevated by our exclusive onsite catering partner, Legacy Sarnia. With a reputation for exceptional food, beverage, and service, Legacy creates tailored menus and dining experiences that enhance every occasion — from intimate gatherings to grand receptions. This close collaboration ensures seamless coordination between event planning, execution, and culinary delivery.

Position Overview

The Event Planning & Services Manager is a guest-facing leader responsible for overseeing all banquet and meeting spaces within our upscale 84-room full-service hotel. Acting as the primary contact for prospective and confirmed clients, this role ensures every event — from intimate meetings to full-scale banquets — is seamlessly planned, coordinated, and executed to the highest standard. With a strong background in food & beverage, the Event Planning & Services Manager partners with the restaurant team and outside vendors to create personalized, memorable experiences that reflect the hotel’s commitment to exceptional hospitality and service culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for all event clients, providing warm, professional, and proactive communication from inquiry through post-event follow-up.
• Utilize Marriott CI/TY systems to manage bookings, create contracts, and ensure accuracy of all event details.
• Partner with the restaurant and culinary teams to design and coordinate catering solutions tailored to each client’s vision.
• Develop and distribute Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to ensure clear communication across all hotel departments.
• Source, communicate with, and coordinate external vendors (AV, décor, entertainment, etc.) to ensure timely and high-quality services.
• Oversee on-site execution of events, including room setup, service flow, and breakdown, ensuring all details meet or exceed client expectations.
• Supervise and support banquet and service staff during events, maintaining polished, efficient service that reflects brand standards.
• Collaborate with housekeeping, engineering, and front office teams to guarantee seamless event operations.
• Monitor event budgets, ensure accurate billing, and maximize revenue opportunities while delivering value for clients.
• Build lasting guest relationships, encouraging repeat business and loyalty to the hotel.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in event management or banquet operations within a full-service or upscale hotel.
• Strong food & beverage background with demonstrated ability to coordinate catering operations.
• Proficiency with Marriott CI/TY and other hotel/event management systems (PMS/POS).
• Exceptional guest service mindset with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail; able to manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to supervise, train, and motivate staff.
• Flexible schedule with availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with incentive.
• Professional development and growth.
• Health coverage.
• A collaborative, guest-focused culture where your creativity and service excellence directly shape memorable guest experiences.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $48,000.00-$55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Sarnia, ON N7T 5V4: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

• Are you able to work at least 40 hours a week or do you have any restrictions?

Experience:

• CI/TY: 2 years (preferred)
• Marriott Brand: 1 year (preferred)
• Event Management : 2 years (required)

Language:

• English (required)

Work Location: In person