Banquets Manager

Marriott International is a global leader in the hospitality industry, known for its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences across its extensive portfolio of hotel brands. Among these prestigious brands, JW Marriott stands out as a symbol of luxury and sophistication, operating over 100 beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations worldwide. Marriott International prides itself on fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment that values the unique backgrounds, talents, and experiences of its associates. The company is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to providing access to opportunities without discrimination based on disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.

JW Marriott properties prioritize the well-being of their associates, believing firmly that happy employees lead to happy guests. Known for promoting a culture of confidence, innovation, genuineness, and intuition, JW Marriott associates are part of a vibrant community that values camaraderie and professional growth. Training, development, recognition, and the pursuit of passions in a luxurious environment characterized by holistic well-being are key elements that define the JW Marriott experience. This comprehensive approach to employee satisfaction is famously branded as The JW Treatment
24, reflecting the hotel’s dedication to supporting its team as they deliver world-class service to guests.

This job opportunity is for an Event Management professional based in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the JW Marriott located at 614 Canal Street. This is a full-time management role within the banquet and event operations division, offering an annual salary range between $62,000 and $76,000, with bonus eligibility. The position is hands-on and dynamic, requiring the incumbent to direct and motivate a banquet team to provide high-quality event service that meets or exceeds Marriott standards.

The Event Management role involves a blend of leadership, operational oversight, customer service excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives. Key responsibilities include monitoring and controlling financial and administrative tasks, protecting assets, and ensuring effective communication with all stakeholders associated with the success of each event. The manager will identify training needs and strategically plan to enhance team performance and professional development. Success in this role requires a thorough understanding of banquet operations, including supply management, adherence to laws and policies, sanitation standards, and cost control related to banquet beverage inventory. Additionally, the role involves scheduling staff to meet service standards while optimizing profitability and fostering lasting relationships with clients to grow business.

In leading the banquet team, the manager sets clear goals, delegates responsibilities, and conducts regular departmental meetings to maintain alignment and drive performance. Knowledge of current event trends, culinary innovations such as food and wine pairings, and effective liaison with kitchen staff are vital to delivering exceptional guest experiences. The manager actively participates in event servicing to model the desired service behaviors.

Customer service excellence is central to this role. The Event Manager sets a positive example, engages with guests to solicit feedback, resolves complaints promptly, and empowers employees to deliver outstanding service. Ensuring employees understand performance expectations and are continuously encouraged to improve service standards is essential. Reviewing guest satisfaction metrics and fostering a culture focused on continuous improvement are integral components of the position.

Lastly, this role encompasses human resources functions such as communicating and executing safety procedures, providing employee feedback, leading staff discussions, implementing corrective action plans, and participating in quality assurance through Meeting Planner Survey results analysis. Participation in relevant meetings enhances cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that the banquet operations contribute to the overall success of the hotel’s event management goals.

In summary, this management role at JW Marriott New Orleans offers a unique opportunity to develop and lead a high-performing banquet team within a globally recognized luxury hotel brand. It combines operational expertise, team leadership, financial oversight, and a steadfast commitment to exceptional guest service, all within a culture that values associate well-being and professional growth. If you are passionate about hospitality, skilled in event management, and eager to contribute to an elite brand experience, this position is an exciting career move.