What does a banquet manager do?

A banquet manager is a professional who is at the forefront of hosting events, banquets, or galas. The duties of a banquet manager include planning the layout and setup of an event, along with handling the staff that will cater to the guests. With the power to control the cost, scale and standard of the event, the responsibilities of the banquet manager are to maximise efficiency, while providing the best event experience to the guests. Planning and execution are the two major tasks that a banquet event manager primarily performs. 

You might hire a banquet manager to:

  • Plan the A-Z of the layout and set up of an event 
  • Negotiate contracts and deals with vendors and suppliers, who are supplying their services to the event as a banquet sales executive 
  • Assign roles and duties to the staff, including the assistant banquet manager, and ensure that the event goes as per the plan 
  • Oversee décor, layouts, placements and factors that add to the look and feel of the venue 
  • Take care of the special requests and queries that come from the guests 
  • Monitor the food and beverages section efficiently as a banquet service manager

Introduction

[Company X] is a leading player in the world of hosting events and banquets. With global banquets hosted by us all through the year, we’re seeking a highly skilled banquet manager to spearhead the planning and execution of the events. The ideal candidate must be an expert at pulling off a successful event that is cost-effective and memorable. The banquet manager's duties include collaborating with a wide range of vendors. Hence, negotiation and leadership skills come in extremely handy. A flair for creativity, without compromising on the quality of services are some of the essential banquet manager skills that we are seeking.

Objectives of this role

  • Lead the planning and execution of an event, keeping in mind the role of a banquet manager 
  • Stand by the vision and ethos of the company, while planning any event  
  • Liaise with the banquet sales manager and director at all times 
  • Devise actionable plans to stay under budget 
  • Adhere strictly to the schedules and timelines as a banquet event manager   

Responsibilities

  • Plan the number of waiters, servers and other staff required as the director of banquets 
  • Monitor the placement of tables, décor, chairs and cutlery of an event, as per the theme and standards that are pre-defined  
  • Ensure that the documentation of the schedule and timelines are in place 
  • Collaborate with the chef and brief them on the various meal courses 
  • Negotiate with various vendors and train the banqueting assistants to do the same 
  • Adhere to local laws and regulations while executing the banquet manager's responsibilities 

Required skills and qualifications

  • Prior experience working as a banquet manager, assistant banquet manager, or in the hotel industry 
  • Certificate or diploma in catering, hospitality or a similar discipline  
  • In-depth understanding of the hospitality industry and its common practices 
  • Impeccable decision-making skills and the ability to work long hours 

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in catering or hospitality 
  • Knowledge of common catering management software  
  • Outstanding negotiation and organisational skills