Conference and Banqueting Assistant/Manager

Conference and banqueting assistants and managers organise private functions such as weddings, parties, dinners and dances or business functions, such as presentations, training events and product launches.

They usually work for a conference centre or venue or for a hotel with function rooms.

Depending on the organisation they work for, tasks may include:

• liaising with customers over their requirements for an event
• negotiating prices and taking bookings
• organising room layouts, equipment, menus and timetables
• liaising with other staff, such as catering and guest services
• making sure that events run smoothly and dealing with any problems or last-minute changes.

Assistants often help to welcome guests and delegates, set up and take down tables and equipment or serve food and drink on the day. They may also set up or operate multimedia and audio-visual equipment. Managers may develop sales and marketing strategies for their venue.

Conference and banqueting staff usually work 40 hours a week, often on a rota system, covering evenings and weekends. Early starts and late finishes may be necessary during an event.

Salaries range from around £13,000 to £50,000 a year.

A conference and banqueting assistant or manager should be:

• quick thinking and good at solving problems
• able to do several things at once
• a skilled communicator and negotiator
• able to pay attention to detail even under pressure
• able to manage and train people
• financially aware and computer literate
• interested in organisational work.

There are no set entry requirements for conference and banqueting assistants, although a qualification in hospitality or marketing can be an advantage.

It is possible to move into conference and banqueting after gaining experience in a junior role within a hotel or conference facility.

Conference and banqueting managers are expected to have previous experience in the hospitality industry, along with a professional qualification, preferably at HND level or above.

The Institute of Hospitality offers several qualifications for managers in hospitality, leisure and tourism. There is also a range of relevant NVQs and other qualifications including food and drink service and multi-skilled hospitality services.

Conference and banqueting managers may progress to general posts in hotel and leisure management or specialised posts such as food and drinks manager.

It is also possible to move into areas such as events or facilities management, training and consultancy, marketing or public relations.

Further details