Banquet and Conference Manager

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Discounted venue services

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Banquet and Conference Manager for a premier Sandton venue. You will plan, execute and optimize banquets, conferences, and events, balancing client needs with profitability and the venue’s standards.

The role blends on-site event execution with remote administration, requiring strong leadership and stakeholder communication to deliver flawless experiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in hospitality/event management or related field.
• 6+ years of banquet/conference management experience.
• Proven ability to plan and execute large-scale events.
• Strong budgeting, pricing, and contract negotiation skills.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Proficient in event management software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end banquet and conference lifecycle.
• Develop detailed event plans, timelines and budgets.
• Liaise with clients to finalize requirements and packages.
• Coordinate with kitchen, F&B, AV, security; manage on-site staff.
• Ensure health, safety, and licensing compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Budgeting

Event logistics

Vendor management

Client management

Team coordination

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Tools

Cvent

Eventbrite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event and hospitality venue located in the heart of Sandton , is seeking an accomplished Banquet and Conference Manager. This role is responsible for the successful planning, execution, and profitability of all banquets, conferences, and special events hosted at the venue. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional organizational abilities, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of event logistics, catering, and client management. This hybrid position allows for remote management of administrative tasks and client communications, while requiring on-site presence for event execution and operational oversight. You will work closely with clients to bring their vision to life, ensuring flawless events that exceed expectations and contribute significantly to the venue's revenue and reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of banquets and conferences, from initial client inquiry to post-event follow-up.
• Develop detailed event plans, timelines, and budgets, ensuring profitability and client satisfaction.
• Liaise with clients to understand their event requirements, offering creative solutions and customized packages.
• Coordinate with internal departments (e.g., kitchen, F&B, AV, security) to ensure seamless event execution.
• Manage event staff, including supervisors and banquet servers, ensuring professional service delivery.
• Conduct regular site inspections and client meetings, balancing remote communication with essential on-site interactions.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and licensing regulations for events.
• Manage vendor relationships, including suppliers for décor, entertainment, and technology.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to gather feedback and identify opportunities for service improvement.
• Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the venue's facilities and services.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in banquet and conference management, with a proven track record in a similar role.
• Demonstrated experience in planning and executing large-scale events and conferences.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, pricing, and contract negotiation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work under pressure.
• A highly organized and detail-oriented approach.
• Flexibility to work varying hours, including evenings and weekends, and to balance remote and on-site duties.
• Customer-centric mindset with a commitment to exceptional service delivery.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based incentives and bonus structures.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and industry certifications.
• Discounted venue services and dining.
• Be at the forefront of event management in prestigious Sandton .