What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Director of Banquets position at Marcus Hotels & Resorts?
Description
An icon since 1893, The Pfister Hotel is Milwaukee’s most celebrated hotel and one of only 11 properties in North America to maintain AAA Four Diamond status for 47 consecutive years. A member of Marcus Hotels & Resorts, The Pfister is known for delivering timeless luxury, outstanding service, and unforgettable experiences. Join a team that takes pride in doing things the right way—for over 130 years and counting.
About This Position
The Assistant Director of Banquets supports the Director of Banquets in the day-to-day operation and strategic direction of the Banquet Department. This hands-on leadership role ensures the flawless execution of all events and upholds the elevated service standards that define The Pfister. You will help drive team performance, guest satisfaction, and operational efficiency in a high-volume, fast-paced luxury environment.
Essential Functions
An icon since 1893, The Pfister Hotel is Milwaukee’s most celebrated hotel and one of only 11 properties in North America to maintain AAA Four Diamond status for 47 consecutive years. A member of Marcus Hotels & Resorts, The Pfister is known for delivering timeless luxury, outstanding service, and unforgettable experiences. Join a team that takes pride in doing things the right way—for over 130 years and counting.
About This Position
The Assistant Director of Banquets supports the Director of Banquets in the day-to-day operation and strategic direction of the Banquet Department. This hands-on leadership role ensures the flawless execution of all events and upholds the elevated service standards that define The Pfister. You will help drive team performance, guest satisfaction, and operational efficiency in a high-volume, fast-paced luxury environment.
Essential Functions
- Supervise the daily operations of all banquet functions, ensuring effective setup, service, and breakdown procedures are followed.
- Support and guide banquet captains, servers, housemen, and bartenders, providing leadership, coaching, and accountability.
- Coordinate banquet service needs with food production and stewarding to ensure alignment with event specifications and timely service.
- Maintain open and effective communication between Banquets, Culinary, Events, Stewarding, and other departments.
- Ensure guest needs and expectations are met and exceeded, responding to concerns or last-minute changes with professionalism and urgency.
- Monitor and maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and safety in all banquet service areas and storage locations.
- Conduct departmental trainings and meetings, including onboarding, refreshers, and performance evaluations.
- Maintain accurate and timely records, including banquet checks, labor reports, and supply inventories.
- Support adherence to departmental budgets, hotel policies, and union contract guidelines (Local 122).
- Participate in scheduling, payroll processing, cost control efforts, and long-term planning with the Director of Banquets.
- Lead or actively participate in weekly BEO meetings, F&B team briefings, safety meetings, and property-wide initiatives.
- Ensure the department maintains a high-quality image of the hotel through effective housekeeping and maintenance oversight.
- Participate in special projects or operational initiatives as needed.
- Minimum 3 years of banquet leadership experience (as a Banquet Captain, Supervisor, or Assistant Manager); experience in a luxury hotel or high-volume event venue is preferred.
- Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate a team in a fast-paced, service-focused environment.
- Demonstrated knowledge of banquet service techniques, setups, staffing strategies, and event flow.
- Strong understanding of financial controls, labor management, and inventory tracking.
- Ability to read, interpret, and execute Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and manage multiple events simultaneously.
- Effective communicator with excellent organizational, time management, and decision-making skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel; experience with POS systems, inventory software, and timekeeping tools.
- Prior experience working in a unionized environment is strongly preferred.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; a degree in Hospitality Management or a related field is preferred.
- Flexible availability including weekends, holidays, and evenings is required.
- A complimentary, well-balanced meal every shift
- Room and dining discounts at Marcus Hotels & Resorts and Historic Hotels of America
- Discounts at Marcus restaurants, golf courses, spas, and ski locations
- Paid time off and holiday pay
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (available after 30 days)
- Company-paid life insurance and employee assistance program
- 401(k) plan with employer match
- Discounted parking in downtown Milwaukee.