What are the responsibilities and job description for the Banquet Manager position at Santa Lucia Preserve?
The Santa Lucia Preserve is a private community dedicated to appreciating and respecting the area’s natural beauty, geography, history, and cultural setting. The Preserve's 20,000 acres are home to a lively community of just under 300 families and a team of talented staff. Our Gatehouse at 1 Rancho San Carlos Road is just a few minutes from Highway 1 in Carmel. A scenic private road takes you into the heart of The Preserve in just 20 minutes.
The Santa Lucia Preserve is hiring a Banquet Manager whose primary duty is to provide world-class service with grace and professionalism that reflects our desire to genuinely care for and exceed the expectations of our members and their guests. As a Banquet Manager, you will be primarily focused on facilitating, coordinating, and enhancing the functions of the Catering & Events department.
Other duties include:
Maintain comprehensive Operational Knowledge of:
The Preserve
- Member and guest access protocols, including safety procedures
- Open and restricted areas across the property
- Property geography (acreage, mileage, event site locations)
- Preserve history
The Ranch Club
- Facilities, services, operations, and pricing structures
- Property Management System (PMS) for booking, billing, and reporting
- Food and beverage programs, menus, and service standards
- Cross-departmental event calendars and programming
The Golf Club
- Facilities, services, and operational procedures
- Access guidelines and dress code standards
- Food and beverage offerings
Responsible for:
Leadership & Supervision
- Supervise, mentor, and develop banquet team members to ensure optimal performance and service excellence
- Partner with HR in recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, and ongoing training initiatives
- Foster a positive, professional, and accountable team environment
- Collaborate with department leadership on labor budgets, forecasting, and cost controls
- Prepare and manage staff schedules aligned with business levels and event needs
- Partner with the Banquet Set-Up Manager to ensure accurate staffing and event readiness
- Review and approve semi-monthly payroll with attention to accuracy and labor compliance
Event Planning & Administration (Pre & Post Event)
- Review all Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) for accuracy, completeness, and operational feasibility
- Confirm event details with clients, vendors, and internal departments
- Coordinate purchasing and rentals in partnership with the Purchasing team
- Oversee inventory management of linens, equipment, and soft goods
- Complete and submit monthly inventory reporting
- Participate in weekly Food & Beverage and Events meetings to align on priorities and execution
Event Execution (Day of Event)
- Serve as the on-site lead for all banquet and catered events
- Coordinate logistics between clients, vendors, culinary, and service teams
- Conduct pre-shift meetings to communicate expectations, assignments, and service standards
- Ensure team understanding and execution of BEO details
- Create and assign task lists for on-call and scheduled staff
- Monitor event flow, service quality, and guest satisfaction in real time
- Manage consumption tracking and event billing documentation
- Act as a professional ambassador of The Preserve, maintaining poise and responsiveness at all times
Communication & Coordination
- Manage and distribute all event-related communications across departments
- Ensure timely and accurate dissemination of BEOs, access details, and special requests
- Maintain clear, professional communication with members, guests, and internal teams
QUALIFICATIONS
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Strong proficiency in computer systems and event management software
- Highly organized with excellent attention to detail
- Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple events simultaneously
- Professional demeanor with strong interpersonal skills
- Effective problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
- Demonstrated conflict resolution skills
- Strong customer service orientation (internal and external)
- Knowledge of local community and regional offerings preferred
- Strong time management and adaptability in a dynamic environment
- Spanish fluency is a plus
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in hospitality, events, or a related field
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Formal training in event or hospitality management is a plus
The Preserve’s vision would not be possible without a dedicated team of service-oriented people. We foster an inclusive, welcoming environment where differences are respected and appreciated. This dedication is rewarded by the sincere gratitude, respect, and appreciation of our Members in addition to the following benefits:
Opportunities for growth
Competitive compensation
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long term disability benefits
Paid sick and vacation hours
401(k) retirement account and match after 1 year of employment
Club amenities including 100 miles of hiking and biking trails, an 18 acre lake, horseback riding and golf
Meal subsidy
Discounts at our restaurants and shops
Company sponsored appreciation events and activities
Please submit a resume and a cover letter to be considered.
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