Director of Banquets (Laguna Beach)
SkyBridge Luxury & Associates, Laguna Beach, California, United States, 92652
Position Summary
The Director of Banquets is responsible for leading all banquet and event operations within a luxury hotel environment, ensuring flawless execution, elevated service standards, and strong financial performance. This role oversees banquet service, event setup, staffing, and coordination with culinary and sales teams to deliver exceptional experiences for corporate meetings, social events, weddings, and VIP functions.
The ideal candidate brings extensive luxury hotel banquet experience, strong operational discipline, and a passion for creating memorable guest experiences at the highest level.
Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Oversee all banquet operations including meetings, conferences, weddings, galas, and high-profile events Ensure seamless event execution from pre-conference planning through post-event follow-up Maintain luxury service standards consistent with Forbes, AAA, or brand expectations Conduct daily event meetings (BEO reviews) with culinary and service teams Ensure proper room setup, décor standards, timing, and service flow Financial Management Manage banquet labor, staffing models, and cost controls Monitor banquet revenue, forecasting, and profitability Partner with Sales and Catering to maximize event revenue and upsell opportunities Oversee payroll and scheduling to meet productivity targets Team Leadership & Development Recruit, train, and develop banquet managers, captains, and service staff Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and guest-first service Provide hands-on leadership during high-profile or complex events Ensure proper training in luxury service standards and sequence of service Guest & Client Experience Serve as senior operational contact for VIP clients and event planners Conduct pre-event meetings and site walkthroughs Resolve service challenges proactively and professionally Ensure consistent follow-through and attention to detail Compliance & Standards Maintain health, safety, and sanitation standards Ensure compliance with liquor laws and safety regulations Maintain equipment, inventory, and event supplies
Required Qualifications 5–8+ years of progressive banquet leadership experience in a
luxury hotel or resort Proven success managing high-volume banquet operations and large-scale events Strong financial acumen with experience managing labor and departmental budgets In-depth knowledge of luxury service standards and event execution Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays Preferred Qualifications Experience in Forbes Five-Star or AAA Four/Five Diamond properties Background in union environments (if applicable) Strong wedding and social event expertise Hotel brand experience (Marriott Luxury, Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, St. Regis, etc.) Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary Bonus/incentive eligibility Comprehensive health and wellness benefits PTO and holiday pay Career advancement within a luxury hospitality portfolio
Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Oversee all banquet operations including meetings, conferences, weddings, galas, and high-profile events Ensure seamless event execution from pre-conference planning through post-event follow-up Maintain luxury service standards consistent with Forbes, AAA, or brand expectations Conduct daily event meetings (BEO reviews) with culinary and service teams Ensure proper room setup, décor standards, timing, and service flow Financial Management Manage banquet labor, staffing models, and cost controls Monitor banquet revenue, forecasting, and profitability Partner with Sales and Catering to maximize event revenue and upsell opportunities Oversee payroll and scheduling to meet productivity targets Team Leadership & Development Recruit, train, and develop banquet managers, captains, and service staff Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and guest-first service Provide hands-on leadership during high-profile or complex events Ensure proper training in luxury service standards and sequence of service Guest & Client Experience Serve as senior operational contact for VIP clients and event planners Conduct pre-event meetings and site walkthroughs Resolve service challenges proactively and professionally Ensure consistent follow-through and attention to detail Compliance & Standards Maintain health, safety, and sanitation standards Ensure compliance with liquor laws and safety regulations Maintain equipment, inventory, and event supplies
Required Qualifications 5–8+ years of progressive banquet leadership experience in a
luxury hotel or resort Proven success managing high-volume banquet operations and large-scale events Strong financial acumen with experience managing labor and departmental budgets In-depth knowledge of luxury service standards and event execution Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays Preferred Qualifications Experience in Forbes Five-Star or AAA Four/Five Diamond properties Background in union environments (if applicable) Strong wedding and social event expertise Hotel brand experience (Marriott Luxury, Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, St. Regis, etc.) Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary Bonus/incentive eligibility Comprehensive health and wellness benefits PTO and holiday pay Career advancement within a luxury hospitality portfolio