Director of Banquets

Hilton Appleton Paper Valley, 333 West College Ave, Appleton, Wisconsin, United States of America Req #5716

Monday, November 25, 2024

Driftwood Hospitality Management's company culture empowers our associates to take initiative, be proactive, and contribute to the success of their property with well-defined strategies and objectives. Driftwood Hospitality Management is renowned for our fully integrated approach to hospitality services - all with outstanding client service. Our team is made up of the best talent in the hospitality industry, down to every employee, position, and hotel.

JOB SUMMARY

Manages all event service, banquet and event technology operations and staff on a daily basis. Core area of responsibility is the Banquet Department ensuring the highest level of service throughout the event phase. Maximizes revenue opportunities by up-selling during the event phase and maximizes profit by effectively managing costs. The position is responsible for achieving guest and associate satisfaction and for managing the financial performance of the Banquet Department.

CORE WORK ACTIVITIES

Managing Event Management Operations and Budgets

Works with the management team to develop and implement the business plan and long term strategies for event operations.

Establishes and monitors measurable goals for the department.

Champions all standards, policies and procedures in the Catering Department.

Oversees the execution of event logistics for all events.

Oversees the administrative processes associated with the event phase of a function and the associated transitions between all event phases as they relate to the service delivery team.

Ensures function space and corresponding heart of the house areas are cleaned and maintained.

Ensures furniture and equipment is maintained and inventory levels are kept in accordance to corporate guidelines.

Communicates and executes departmental and property emergency procedures and ensures staff are trained in safety procedures.

Ensures associates maintain required certification.

Assists with implementation and execution of all event related corporate initiatives and promotions.

Managing Profitability

Ensures department is working within budget and adjusts expenditures according to revenues.

Maintains awareness of current trends in event management and integrates into the operation in a timely manner.

Reviews effectiveness of event operations annually and makes appropriate adjustments.

Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service

Consult with customers in order to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences, and conventions.

Displays leadership in guest hospitality, exemplifies excellent customer service and creates a positive atmosphere for guest relations.

Maintains customer satisfaction to ensure retention and growth of business through referrals and repeat events.

Leading Event Management Teams

Leads execution of activities in Catering to support the Event Management strategy.

Leads event management/operations meetings.

Coordinates the Catering Department members.

Works with culinary team to ensure compliance to food handling and sanitation standards.

Works with Human Resources to ensure compliance with all local, state and federal regulations.

Ensures that regular, ongoing communication is happening in all areas Catering.

Maintaining Relationships with Property Stakeholders

Communicates effectively with property departments outside of Event Operations.

Maintains a strong working relationship with guests/clients, vendors and competitors.

Conducting Human Resources Activities

Reviews staffing levels to ensure that guest service and operational needs are met.

Participates in weekly forecast meetings to anticipate service and staffing needs.

Works with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts.

Attends pre-event meetings to understand group needs, set appropriate expectations and gather critical information to communicate to Event Operations Team.

Ensures disciplinary procedures and documentation are completed according to Standard Operating Procedures.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Education and Experience

High school diploma or GED; 4 years experience in the event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area. OR 2 years experience in the event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Minimum of high school education or equivalent.

One full year of employment in a banquet or supervisory position is required.

Requires a working knowledge of hotels banquet/catering food and beverage services.

Communication skills required to provide information and associated services to hotel management and guests.

Hold a current Food Handler Card.

Must have basic knowledge of food and beverage preparations, service standards, guest relations and etiquette.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to lift and move multiple tables and chairs and podiums weighing up to 80 lbs.

Ability to grasp, lift and/or carry, or otherwise move or push goods on a hand cart/truck weighing a maximum of 100 lbs.

Frequent twisting, bending, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, talking, hearing, seeing, and smiling.

EEO: Driftwood Hospitality Management is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
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