Conf. & Banquet Manager

Also known as: Conference Services Manager, Catering Manager, Convention Services Manager (CSM), Conference Planner, Director of Conference Services, Conference Manager, Conference Planning Manager, Event Manager, Catering and Convention Services Coordinator, Catering and Convention Services Manager

As a conference and banqueting manager you will help your business maximise its revenue through functions and special events. You’ll specialise in co-ordinating conferences, meetings, banquets, parties, exhibitions, and weddings.

Your day-to-day duties may involve:

• supervising the food and beverage team
• liaising with clients to meet their expectations
• managing budgets
• managing reservations and bookings
• implementing health and safety procedures

It’s your duty to promote the facilities and services available and manage client relationships, making sure their event is successful. You will organise the event itself, including any support staff, all the food and beverage requirements, and set up the venue. During the event you’ll liaise with the food and beverage team members to ensure the service is efficient and timely.

As well as organising the event, it is vital that the conference and banqueting manager maintains a record of expenses and keeps to the client’s budget. This means frequent cost analysis is a important part of the role.  You will need to have good planning and administration skills, and an eye for detail. Good communication and negotiation skills are important when dealing with clients, suppliers, and the attendees themselves.