Event Manager - Maggiano's-South Coast Plaza

Event ManagerThe Event Manager is responsible for the planning, coordination, and flawless execution of all banquet events. This role owns all event details after booking, including room setup, seating plans, event timelines, staffing coordination, menu arrangements, and day-of execution. The Event Manager ensures every event is delivered to standard, on time, and according to guest expectations.This role partners closely with Sales Manager, Culinary, and Restaurant Leadership teams to provide an exceptional guest experience from event handoff through completion.Essential FunctionsOwn all event details once the event is booked and handed off from sales teamReview contracts, BEOs, and event notes for accuracy and completenessCreate and manage event timelines, layouts, seating charts, and room assignmentsCoordinate menu selections, special requests, dietary needs, and service styleSchedule banquet staff based on event size and service requirementsLead day-of execution, ensuring events start on time and run according to planServe as primary on-site contact for hosts during eventsConduct pre-event meetings with teams to review logistics and service expectationsOperational LeadershipDevelop, communicate, and enforce banquet standard operating proceduresHire, train, coach, performance manage, and support banquet teams on service standards and execution excellenceEnsure rooms are properly set according to diagrams and guest specificationsMaintain inventory related to banquet service, linens, A/V, and equipmentPartner with culinary team on timing, flow of food, and menu executionFinancial & Performance ManagementMonitor banquet profitability through labor, food cost, and expense controlSupport menu pricing, updates, and rollout executionReview event performance and address service recovery when neededTrack and drive results on banquet guest experience metrics and KPIsCross-Functional PartnershipPartner with Sales Managers to ensure clean event handoffsCommunicate changes to menus, guarantees, and setup in a timely mannerWork with IT/vendor partners on banquet systems, phones, printers, and CRM toolsSystems & ReportingMaintain banquet event systems, room setup libraries, and menu filesReview reports related to revenue, lost business, repeat business, and guest feedbackEnsure accuracy of BEOs and event documentationQualification StandardsMinimum 3 years' experience in hotel, catering, or banquet operations requiredExperience leading event execution and service teamsStrong knowledge of banquet service standards and room setupsAbility to read and execute BEOs, layouts, and event contractsStrong organizational and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environmentExcellent guest-service and conflict-resolution skillsProficiency with banquet systems, CRM, or event softwareAbility to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays