Banquet Manager

Company Description

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a renowned luxury hotel brand with a global presence and a commitment to creating lasting memories for our guests. With over 30,000 colleagues worldwide, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional service, fostering a culture of excellence, and making special happen.

Located in the heart of downtown Fairmont New Orleans will be an impressive new addition to Fairmont’s luxury portfolio, offering 250 luxury guest rooms, four food & drink venues, a rooftop pool with expansive views of the city, more than 19,000 square feet of function space, and a 10,000 square-foot spa.

This property is destined to become an illustrious destination in the Central Business District, nearby the city’s renowned and historic French Quarter.

The Banquet Manager is responsible for supporting the Director of Banquets in the management and daily operation of the Banquet Department in accordance with Fairmont New Orleans standards. This position plays a key role in executing exceptional banquet and event experiences while supporting the Director of Banquets with team leadership, event planning, staffing, training, and day-to-day operations.

The Banquet Manager is a hands-on leader who works closely with the Director of Banquets, Catering and Conference Services, Culinary, Stewarding, and other hotel departments to ensure seamless event execution and exceptional guest service.

• Support the Director of Banquets in overseeing the daily operations of the Banquet Department
• Assist the Director of Banquets in implementing and maintaining departmental service standards, policies, procedures, and operating practices
• Lead banquet operations during assigned events and shifts, ensuring service is executed efficiently and according to Fairmont standards
• Serve as a visible leader on the floor, providing direction and hands-on support to banquet colleagues throughout events
• Maintain complete knowledge of banquet menus, food and beverage offerings, service styles, event setups, and function specifications
• Review Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and function sheets to ensure all event details, guarantees, timing, VIPs, special requests, and setup requirements are understood and executed accurately
• Work closely with Catering and Conference Services, Culinary, Stewarding, Engineering, Housekeeping, and other departments to ensure successful event execution
• Inspect function rooms and event spaces prior to service to ensure proper cleanliness, setup, equipment, lighting, temperature, and overall presentation
• Conduct pre-function meetings with banquet colleagues and Culinary to review event details, service expectations, special requests, and assignments
• Assign stations, side work, and responsibilities to banquet colleagues based on event requirements and staffing levels
• Monitor service throughout each function and provide coaching, direction, and hands-on support as needed
• Anticipate guest needs and respond promptly and professionally to requests
• Maintain positive guest relations and ensure a personalized and memorable guest experience
• Address and resolve guest concerns and service issues promptly, escalating significant concerns to the Director of Banquets or appropriate leadership
• Maintain awareness of VIP guests, group requirements, special arrangements, and other important event details
• Ensure proper food and beverage presentation, service timing, quality, and portion standards are maintained
• Maintain complete knowledge of wines, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic beverage selections offered by the hotel
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state and local alcohol regulations and responsible alcohol service standards
• Monitor banquet work areas…