We're People People. Are you?
We're Sonesta International Hotels-the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S. (and growing fast ).
With a dynamic mix of full-service and focused hotels across major cities, our diverse portfolio of owned, managed, and franchised properties means we're everywhere our guests need us to be.
But here's the thing-we're not just in the business of hotels, we're in the business of people. We bring service with passion, loyalty with purpose, and create experiences that genuinely connect-delivering quality, value, and memorable stays across 1,000+ properties in eight countries (and counting).
What this role is all about
What this role is all about
At Sonesta, exceptional events are powered by great service, seamless execution, and teams that know how to create memorable experiences. As the Banquet Manager, you'll lead banquet operations across meetings, conferences, weddings, galas, and special events while ensuring every function is delivered with professionalism, energy, and attention to detail.
This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and enjoys balancing guest service, operational leadership, event coordination, and team development. You'll oversee banquet service teams, event execution, and banquet operations while partnering closely with Convention Services, Culinary, Catering, and Food & Beverage leadership teams to create unforgettable guest experiences.
If you're organized, service-driven, and passionate about hospitality and events - we'd love to meet you.
What you'll be doing
What you'll be doing
Lead banquet operations for meetings, conferences, weddings, corporate events, social functions, and catered events across the hotel.
Supervise, coach, schedule, and support Banquet Captains, Banquet Servers, and banquet setup teams to deliver exceptional guest service and operational excellence.
Review banquet event orders (BEOs), event timelines, staffing plans, room setups, and operational details to ensure flawless execution.
Coordinate closely with Convention Services, Culinary, Stewarding, Catering, and Food & Beverage leadership teams throughout event operations.
Monitor banquet room setup, buffet presentation, table service, beverage service, and event transitions to maintain hotel service standards.
Respond quickly and professionally to guest requests, operational changes, service recovery situations, and client concerns during events.
Support banquet staffing, onboarding, training, employee engagement, and team development initiatives.
Monitor banquet labor costs, operational supplies, inventory organization, and departmental productivity to support operational efficiency and profitability.
Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, sanitation procedures, responsible alcohol service guidelines, and hotel operational policies.
Support VIP events, weddings, conferences, and high-volume banquet operations while maintaining professionalism and service excellence.
Help foster a collaborative, energetic, and guest-focused culture aligned with Sonesta's People People philosophy.
Any other duties as assigned.
What great looks like
Previous banquet, catering, Food & Beverage, hotel, event, or hospitality leadership experience preferred.
Previous Banquet Manager, Banquet Captain, Assistant Banquet Manager, or event operations leadership experience preferred.
Strong knowledge of banquet operations, event execution, staffing management, banquet setup, and hospitality service standards.
Excellent communication, leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced hospitality and events environment.
Strong attention to detail, presentation, operational execution, and guest satisfaction.
Experience managing banquet staffing, labor management, event logistics, and operational coordination preferred.
Knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and responsible alcohol service practices preferred.
Flexible availability including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and late-night event support as needed.
A passion for hospitality, leadership, teamwork, guest engagement, and creating unforgettable event experiences.
Anticipated Pay Range & Additional Job Information
Pay range is $55,000 - $65,000 and are eligible for bonus.
The base pay offered may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and specific/overall experience.
Sonesta recognizes that benefits play a vital role in helping ensure the health and financial security of employees and their families. We offer a variety of benefits to our employees including:
Go Beyond @SonestaHotels
WHO WE ARE
We are an organization made up of people, thoughts and ideas - all working towards fulfilling our simple mission: To wow every guest, team member, partner & community we operate in by delivering quality, value & amazing hospitality.
We will achieve our mission by being passionate about exceeding expectations - by being persistent, resilient, and constantly seeking new and creative ways to succeed. Doing the Right Thing and Going Beyond are our principles that guide everything we do.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.
Our Commitment to You
Sonesta is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Before You Apply
To be considered, please complete the full application in addition to submitting your resume. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
| Location | Royal Sonesta Downtown Chicago, IL |
| Salary | $55,000–$65,000 Per Year |
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