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Event Manager/Banquet/Catering Manager/S

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Tuition Assistance
Employee Discounts
Professional Development

Job Description

Michigan State University (MSU) is a renowned public research university located in East Lansing, Michigan. The university is committed to fostering innovation, diversity, and excellence in education and community service. As part of its dedication to creating engaging student life experiences, MSU’s Residential and Hospitality Services (RHS) division delivers comprehensive culinary and lodging services that support the university’s academic and social missions. Culinary Services, under RHS, manages dining and catering operations with a commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. The Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center, situated on the MSU campus, is an iconic facility that has been serving the Spartan community for 75 years. It hosts a wide array of events such as conferences, weddings, corporate functions, and student engagement activities. The center is supported by Kellogg Catering, which offers catering services across campus venues including the Breslin Student Events Center, Munn Ice Arena, the Student Recreation & Wellness Center, and the Multicultural Center.

The position of Banquet and Catering Event Manager at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center offers an exciting opportunity for experienced hospitality professionals passionate about event management and guest services. This full-time role is crucial to the successful planning, coordination, and execution of diverse events. The manager will work closely with sales, culinary, audiovisual, and setup teams to ensure seamless operations that align with client expectations. Responsibilities cover managing food service and event setups, overseeing staff training and performance, monitoring budget and expenses, and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations. Essential skills include strong organizational abilities, creativity, leadership, and the capacity to adapt swiftly to the dynamic demands of event management. With a salary commensurate with experience, this role not only offers a chance to lead in a prestigious setting but also to contribute significantly to the vibrant community at MSU.

Joining the Kellogg team means embracing a set of core values: Belonging, Partnership, Stewardship, Learning and Development, and Safety. These values guide the team to create inclusive, high-quality hospitality experiences that empower the entire Spartan community. As a designated critical status position, the Banquet and Catering Event Manager must demonstrate reliability and dedication, especially during emergency operations, reinforcing the position's importance within the university's operational framework. This position is designed for individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment and who are eager to deliver exceptional events that provide memorable guest experiences. MSU encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and welcomes recent graduates who are ready to grow within the hospitality field.

Job Requirements

  • Knowledge equivalent to a four-year college degree program in Hospitality, Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management, General Business, or related field
  • One to three years of related and progressively responsible work experience in banquet/catering service
  • Proper meal service techniques and protocol
  • Experience with food sanitation and safety procedures
  • Familiarity with alcoholic beverage service including State of Michigan regulations
  • Experience with cost control and supervision
  • Menu planning experience or equivalent
  • Valid chauffeur or commercial driver’s license with endorsements and medical certificate by first day of employment
  • Good driving record
  • Ability to submit driver’s license number for motor vehicle record check

Job Qualifications

  • Four-year college degree in Hospitality, Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management, General Business, or related field preferred
  • One to three years of progressively responsible experience in banquet/catering service including meal service techniques, events setup, food sanitation and safety, and beverage service regulations
  • Strong organizational and communication skills
  • Ability to train and supervise staff
  • Experience managing event budgets and cost control
  • Ability to work under pressure and solve problems
  • Valid chauffeur or commercial driver’s license with applicable endorsements
  • Knowledge of health, safety, and hygiene regulations
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and teamwork orientation

Job Duties

  • Manage and oversee all food service and event setup activities to ensure high-quality service and exceptional guest experiences
  • Coordinate room setups, vendor logistics, and food service timing for seamless event execution
  • Serve food and beverages in accordance with established hotel service standards
  • Set up event spaces, including place settings, decor, buffet lines, linens, tables, and chairs
  • Clean and maintain all work areas, including back hallways, carts, storage closets, and event spaces
  • Instruct and assist event staff with proper meal service, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage service, and standard operating procedures
  • Collaborate closely with the kitchen to ensure accurate event details, proper timing, and smooth service flow

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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