Pretoria: Conference & Banqueting Manager

Position overview: The Conference and Banqueting Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating and overseeing all conference and banqueting operations to ensure seamless, profitable and memorable events that reflect the estates 4/5-star luxury standards. The role is highly operational and guest-facing, with accountability for end-to-end event delivery, team leadership and alignment with FCB and broader hotel objectives. Requirements: Grade 12 Relevant tertiary qualification or diploma in Hospitality Management, Hotel Management, Events Management or a related field will be an advantage. Additional certifications in food safety, health and safety, or event management will be beneficial Minimum 5 years experience in banqueting and conference operations within a high-volume, upmarket or luxury hotel, conference centre or similar establishment. Proven track record managing end-to-end events, including corporate conferences, weddings, gala dinners and special functions. Experience leading teams of approximately 1030 staff, including permanent and outsourced personnel. Experience collaborating closely with Sales, FCB, Kitchen, Front Office and Housekeeping to deliver integrated guest experiences. Must be at your current employer of more than 1 (one) year Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of conference, banqueting and event operations in a high- volume, upmarket or luxury hotel, conference centre or similar environment. Strong understanding of function sheets/BEOs, rooming lists, event flows, AV basics and service sequences for different event types. Sound knowledge of FCB products, menu styles (buffet, plated, cocktail), wine service and dietary requirements relevant to a wine estate and spa property. Practical understanding of labour scheduling, stock control, cost of sales and basic event profit and loss principles. Knowledge of applicable South African health and safety, food safety and liquor legislation. Skills: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to direct, motivate, and discipline teams. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with confidence in dealing with guests, colleagues, suppliers and management. High level of organisational and time-management ability, with strong multitasking skills to manage multiple concurrent events. Strong problem-solving and “think on your feet” capability in a fast- paced, live-event environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and exposure to event management/PMS systems (e.g. Opera, Protel or similar). Numeracy and basic financial analysis skills for stock counts, costings, revenue and event performance reporting. Responsibilities: Plan and execute all on-property conferences, meetings, banquets, weddings and special events from handover to post-event review, ensuring flawless delivery in line with client expectations and hotel standards. Lead, mentor and manage a conference and banqueting team (approximately 10-30 staff) to maintain high levels of professionalism, service excellence, productivity and adherence to grooming standards. Coordinate closely with Sales, Reservations, FCB, Kitchen, Front Office, Housekeeping, Maintenance and Spa to ensure accurate function sheets, smooth event flows and integrated guest experiences. Prepare detailed event plans, including room layouts, seating plans, timelines, staffing plans and service flows, and oversee set-up, décor, AV readiness, signage and cleanliness of all venues. Control operating equipment, beverage and cleaning stock, including requisitioning, ordering, receiving, storage, usage, counts and variance reporting to support departmental profitability. Ensure accurate posting of charges, cash-ups, voids and complimentary items, and support the FCB Operations Manager with budgeting, cost control, revenue maximisation and departmental reporting. Maintain full compliance with health and safety, food hygiene, liquor licensing and all hotel policies, SOPs, checklists and security protocols. Act as primary on-the-day contact for clients, handle changes and special requests, proactively resolve issues on the floor and drive guest satisfaction, repeat business and positive feedback. Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us in 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.