Banquet Manager

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Banquet Manager is responsible for the overall management and coordination of all banquet events, ensuring seamless execution and exceptional service standards. This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong leadership, and excellent organizational skills. The Banquet Manager ensures that each event is executed efficiently, managing operations.

BENEFITS & PERKS: Health, Dental, and Voluntary Benefits Package (available after 90 days), employer-sponsored mental health and resource program, 401(k) program, life insurance, wellness benefits, paid parental leave, paid vacation, career mentorship and growth potential, and dining incentives across our 20+ establishments!

ABOUT BOKA RESTAURANT GROUP: Boka Restaurant Group is a James Beard Award-winning group, anchored by partnerships with some of American’s greatest chefs. With a firm belief that genuine hospitality makes the world a more human place, we strive beyond convention to believe in and support each other, care for our communities, and work together to build the world we want to live in. View our restaurants here:

SPECIFIC TASKS: As a Banquet Manager at Boka Restaurant Group and the Chicago Athletic Association, you will be responsible for:

Banquet Event Management

• Lead the planning, organization, and execution of all banquet events, ensuring high-quality service and a flawless guest experience.
• Collaborate with event team and clients to tailor services and menus to specific event requirements, ensuring all details are addressed.
• Manage the event timeline and ensure staff assignments are appropriately scheduled to meet service expectations.
• Coordinate with kitchen, service, and support staff to ensure smooth and efficient event operations.
• Maintain high standards of grooming and professionalism for all team members.

Inventory & Cost Control

• Ensure compliance with BRG inventory protocols, overseeing accurate tracking of supplies and inventory levels for each event.
• Order and manage the supply of banquet-related materials (food, beverages, equipment) to meet event demands while adhering to budget constraints.
• Regularly assess and manage inventory usage, aiming to reduce waste and optimize cost control.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, motivate, and train the banquet team, including servers, chefs, and banquet captains, to maintain high service standards and team morale.
• Organize regular staff meetings to review operational goals, provide performance feedback, and discuss upcoming events.
• Foster an environment of teamwork and open communication, ensuring that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities.

Guest Experience & Client Relations

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during events, ensuring their expectations are met and providing exceptional customer service.
• Address and resolve any guest concerns or issues promptly, ensuring that all guests leave with a positive impression.
• Escalate any large issues to senior management in a timely manner.
• Maintain strong client relationships, ensuring repeat business and positive referrals.

Operational Oversight & Safety Compliance

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, maintaining a clean, safe, and organized working environment.
• Perform regular walk-throughs to monitor banquet setup and overall readiness.
• Ensure all banquet staff are trained in proper food safety and sanitation procedures.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift 10- 20lbs if necessary.
• Safely and effectively use all necessary tools and equipment.
• Stand and walk for the entirety of an eight-hour shift, including moving safely through all areas of the restaurant.

If you feel you meet the requirements, are a team player, experienced, passionate, and dedicated to your craft, we want to hear from you! Please reply with a copy of your resume AND a cover letter detailing why you'd be a great addition to our team!