Banquet Manager (East Lansing)

Banquet & Event Manager East Lansing, MI Lead High-Impact Events in a Premier Hospitality Environment Salary: $56,000 - $70,000 Comprehensive Health Benefits + Exceptional Retirement Package Harper Associates has been exclusively retained for this search. We’re seeking an experienced Event Manager / Banquet Manager / Catering Manager to oversee the execution of large-scale events, conferences, weddings, and corporate functions across the Kellogg Hotel & Center and Michigan State University venues, including Breslin Center and Munn Ice Arena. This is a hands-on hospitality leadership role for someone who thrives in fast-paced food & beverage operations and delivers exceptional guest experience in high-volume event environments. Bonus for Spartan athletics fans who would like to be totally immersed in the MSU sports atmosphere! What You’ll Do Lead event execution for banquets, catering services, conferences, weddings, and social events Coordinate event logistics, including room setup, vendor management, audiovisual coordination, and service timing Partner with culinary and food & beverage operations teams to ensure seamless service delivery and high-quality presentation Oversee banquet operations, staffing, and labor scheduling for efficient event execution Manage event budgets, forecasting, inventory, and cost control to support revenue and operational goals Ensure accurate event billing, reporting, and financial reconciliation Hire, train, and supervise banquet staff, servers, and setup teams, supporting ongoing performance management and development Maintain compliance with food safety, sanitation, and alcohol service regulations, ensuring a safe and professional environment Act as on-site leader for event coordination, troubleshooting, and real-time problem solving What You Bring 1–3+ years of experience in banquet operations, catering services, or event management Background in hospitality management, hotel operations, or upscale catering environments Strong leadership experience managing teams in high-volume, customer-facing operations Knowledge of food safety, beverage service standards, and hospitality compliance Proven ability in event coordination, vendor management, and guest service delivery Strong communication, organizational, and guest experience management skills Preferred Qualifications: 3–5+ years in hotel banquet or catering management Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and revenue management Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or similar hospitality certification Chauffer’s license for driving catering trucks (must be willing to obtain if you don't already have it) Compensation & Benefits Salary: $56,000 - $70,000 (based on experience) Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage Retirement plan with 5% employee contribution and 10% employer match Generous PTO including vacation, holidays, sick time, and winter break Role Details On-site position in a dynamic university hospitality environment Active role requiring movement, setup, and lifting up to 75 lbs Exposure to event venues, kitchens, and large-scale guest operations Must be available for peak event scheduling and operational needs Why This Role? This is an opportunity to lead large-scale event operations in a high-visibility setting, working across premier venues while building expertise in hospitality management, banquet operations, and event leadership. Excellent career advancement opportunities! Apply Now If you’re ready to lead high-volume events, catering operations, and hospitality teams, please email your resume to or hit apply below. Kevin Swanquist Executive Recruiter Harper Associates