Title: Director of Banquets
Entity: Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel | Autograph Hotel Collection Location: Columbia, Maryland Employer of Record: Meyer Jabara Hotels Compensation: Competitive base + full benefits
About Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel
Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel is a progressive, modern 4.5‑star lakeside destination within the Autograph Collection, uniquely positioned at the intersection of nature, music, culture, and community. Overlooking Lake Kittamaqundi and steps from Merriweather Post Pavilion, the hotel is designed to be more than a place to stay. It serves as a gathering place, a social anchor, and a cultural connector for the Columbia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC markets.
As the property enters its next chapter, ownership is committed to elevating the brand, refining the guest experience, and strengthening commercial performance. This phase requires disciplined execution, thoughtful leadership, and a clear commercial point of view.
Position Overview
The Director of Banquets is a highly detail-oriented leader responsible for orchestrating exceptional banquet and event experiences that reflect the distinctive character and elevated standards of an Autograph Collection hotel. This role demands a passion for perfection, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to curate seamless, memorable events from concept through execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and inspire the banquet team to deliver flawless, luxury-level service across all events
- Oversee all banquet operations, ensuring precision in setup, execution, and breakdown of events
- Collaborate closely with Sales, Culinary, and Event Planning teams to ensure alignment on client expectations and delivery
- Maintain rigorous standards for presentation, cleanliness, and service etiquette, with a strong focus on consistency and excellence
- Manage labor scheduling, manage temporary staff, payroll, and staffing levels to align with business demands while controlling costs
- Conduct detailed pre-event meetings and post-event evaluations to continuously elevate service standards
- Ensure all banquet spaces are set to exact specifications, including décor, table settings, and ambiance
- Monitor inventory, equipment, and supplies, ensuring quality and readiness at all times
- Uphold brand standards while delivering unique, locally inspired guest experiences in line with Autograph Collection values
- Address guest feedback promptly and professionally, turning opportunities into exceptional service recoveries
Qualifications
- Strong leadership presence with a passion for hospitality and guest services
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Solid understanding of restaurant financials, labor management, and service standards
- Ability to lead by example and remain composed under pressure
- Knowledge of POS systems and restaurant operations technology
- Be positive, encouraging, and open-minded throughout daily operations
- Foster a culture of accountability, precision, and pride in execution
- Train and mentor team members on luxury service standards, attention to detail, and anticipatory guest service
- Enforce grooming, uniform, and presentation standards with consistency
- Lead by example with a hands-on approach and a commitment to operational excellence
- Knowledge of banquet operations systems and POS platforms
- Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Knowledge of CI/TY and BEO template
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
- Opportunity to lead a prestigious luxury culinary program
- Career growth within a high-end hospitality environment
- Creative freedom to shape menus and dining experiences
- Supportive leadership team and professional culture