Banquet Manager

Sonesta International Hotels; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 58,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a passionate Banquet Manager to lead a dynamic team dedicated to creating exceptional guest experiences. This role involves managing all aspects of banquet services, ensuring high-quality service, and driving revenue goals. The ideal candidate will foster a culture of caring, motivate staff, and uphold the highest standards of service. If you are a results-oriented leader with a knack for event management and a commitment to guest satisfaction, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a team where your contributions will be valued and your career can flourish.

Benefits

Health Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Hotel Discounts

Educational Assistance

Qualifications

• 2+ years in event management or food and beverage roles.
• Strong knowledge of service standards and guest etiquette.

Responsibilities

• Manage banquet service department for efficiency and guest satisfaction.
• Supervise food presentation and service quality.
• Coordinate with kitchen staff for food preparation.

Skills

Event Management

Food and Beverage Knowledge

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Leadership Skills

Education

High School Diploma

College Degree

Job description

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Job Description Summary

The Banquet Manager sets the tone for Sonesta’s Culture of Caring. We expect leaders to focus on creating amazing moments for guests and team members and dig deep to find ways to create success for their team.

The Banquet Manager is responsible for directing and motivating the banquet staff, ensuring high-quality service for all banquet and catering functions by following safety and brand standards. The role’s primary focus is to drive results through the department, promote strategies to increase guest satisfaction, reduce employee turnover, and meet revenue and productivity goals.

Sonesta managers provide strategic vision, ensure tactical execution, and actively manage their departments to meet revenue and profitability targets. The ideal candidate is passionate about building and motivating teams that achieve results, with a guest-focused and achievement-oriented leadership style.

Principle duties and responsibilities (Essential Functions)

1. Manage all aspects of the banquet service department to ensure efficiency and guest satisfaction.
2. Arrange all food and beverage details, including linens, table setups, and decorations.
3. Supervise food presentation, buffet setups, and service quality.
4. Inspect rooms and equipment for quality standards adherence.
5. Interview, hire, train, and promote banquet staff; provide feedback and disciplinary actions as needed; maintain relationships with in-house groups.
6. Process payroll and gratuity distribution post-events.
7. Coordinate with kitchen staff for food preparation and setup.
8. Discuss event details with the Catering and Convention Services Manager.
9. Review guest satisfaction surveys with staff.
10. Ensure safety and sanitation standards are met.
11. Address guest complaints and follow up appropriately.
12. Maintain personal appearance and grooming standards.
13. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Strategy and Planning

1. Prepare and adjust weekly work schedules based on staffing and forecasted demands.
2. Analyze guest satisfaction data and implement improvement plans.
3. Investigate new cleaning tools and methods.
4. Conduct inventories of linens, supplies, and equipment.

Financial Management

1. Achieve revenue goals, control costs, and maximize profitability.
2. Manage staffing to meet service and operational needs.
3. Handle billing and POS transactions efficiently.
4. Control costs related to liquor and manage beverage inventory.
5. Participate in budgeting and forecasting processes.

Managing your Team

1. Attract, retain, and motivate team members.
2. Ensure proper training aligned with career goals and policies.
3. Conduct pre-shift meetings and regular departmental meetings.

Leading with Passion

1. Provide exceptional customer service.
2. Collaborate across departments and corporate resources.
3. Motivate employees and foster a trusting, culture-rich environment.
4. Lead by example with integrity and respect.
5. Inspire the team to embody Sonesta’s core values and standards.

Qualifications And Skills

• High school diploma required; college degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in event management, food and beverage, or related fields.
• Experience in hospitality and understanding of union environments preferred.
• Knowledge of food and beverage preparations, service standards, and guest etiquette.
• Strong communication, organizational, analytical, and leadership skills.

Additional Job Information

Pay range: $58,000 - $65,000 plus bonus. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, hotel discounts, educational assistance, and more.

About Sonesta

We are committed to exceeding expectations through passion, resilience, and creativity, guided by principles of doing the right thing and going beyond. We are an equal opportunity employer.