Small hotels or banquet halls may have a single banquet manager who is in charge of all banquet manager duties. Several banquet managers may be assigned to large facilities that host multiple large functions at the same time in order to ensure a seamless event. A setup manager, a serving manager, and a kitchen manager are all examples of banquet manager jobs. Each banquet manager position is critical in the hospitality industry.
A banquet setup manager may be in charge of ensuring that all banquet setup is completed. Tables, chairs, linens, dance floors, audio-visual equipment, and facility-provided decorations are examples of items that will be used for the banquet. Working with outside vendors to ensure that every item needed for a banquet is present could be part of a banquet manager’s job description.
Serving managers are responsible for training and supervising individuals who will serve food at banquets. The serving manager will work to resolve any conflicts that may arise, as well as ensuring that customers are completely satisfied with their service. This is the most customer-facing of all the banquet manager jobs.
Before, during, and after a banquet, a banquet kitchen manager supervises kitchen staff and food production. This can be a stressful position because there is only so much work that can be done before a banquet. The rest of the preparations must be completed on the day of the banquet or during it, while maintaining taste and presentation. In this role, delegating tasks to other kitchen staff members is crucial, as is ordering the proper amount of food and keeping food costs low without sacrificing quality.
Although education in the hospitality industry can be beneficial, banquet manager jobs often do not require any special education. Many banquet managers began their careers as office or kitchen assistants in a hotel or banquet hall and worked their way up. Banquet managers may also benefit from management training programs.
Because banquets are frequently held at night, weekends, and holidays, many banquet manager jobs require the individual to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Banquet managers are also expected to be on their feet for long periods of time. The job can be physically demanding.
Many banquet manager jobs would benefit from having the ability to think through problems quickly and calmly. Excellent interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to deal with stress and pressure, are also essential. Some banquet manager jobs may also require heavy lifting.