Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional. 
 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognized for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Mandarin Oriental, Makati is an upcoming 5-star luxury hotel set within the lush Ayala Triangle Gardens, at the prestigious corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue. Scheduled to open in 2026, this landmark development will feature 276 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, offering a refined blend of contemporary design and timeless sophistication. Guests will enjoy an exceptional array of world-class amenities, including a curated selection of restaurants, a stylish bar, a serene pool area, and the brand’s signature spa. Designed to be a sanctuary in the heart of the city, the hotel promises an elevated experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort, excellence, and distinction in Manila.

The Role

The Director of Banquets is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational excellence, and financial performance of the Banquets team at Mandarin Oriental, Makati. During the pre-opening stage, he/she will oversee the successful setup, launch, and ongoing management of banquet operations, ensuring the flawless delivery of events that reflect Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service, culinary excellence, and luxury standards.

The role works closely with Catering & Events Sales, Culinary, Finance, Engineering, and other operational leaders to position the hotel as a premier destination for high-end weddings, business meetings, and other social events and occasions in Metro Manila.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-opening Leadership & Setup:

• Lead all pre-opening activities for the Banquets department, including space readiness, staffing, operating supplies, equipment, and standard operating procedures.
• Collaborate with Culinary and Catering & Events Sales teams to define banquet menus, service styles, pricing logic, and operational workflows.
• Participate in event space reviews, mock services, simulations, and soft-opening activities to ensure operational readiness.

Banquet Operations & Service Excellence:

• Oversee the planning and execution of all banquets, meetings, and events to ensure seamless service delivery and exceptional guest experiences.
• Ensure adherence to Mandarin Oriental brand standards, service rituals, and quality expectations at all times.
• Personally oversee high-profile, VIP, and complex events as required.

Financial & Cost Management:

• Manage departmental budgets, labor costs, productivity ratios, and operating expenses to achieve financial targets.
• Analyze forecasts, event volumes, and staffing requirements to optimize efficiency and profitability.
• Ensure accurate billing, cost control, and inventory management in coordination with Finance and Purchasing.

Team Leadership & Talent Development:

• Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing Banquets team, fostering a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and service excellence.
• Establish clear performance standards, coaching processes, and succession planning.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, safety regulations, and company policies.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Work closely with Sales, Events Planning, Culinary, and Engineering teams to ensure smooth event handovers and execution.
• Participate in internal meetings, tastings, pre-event briefings, and post-event reviews to continuously enhance service quality.
• Support sales efforts through operational expertise during site inspections and client meetings when needed.

Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure full compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and food hygiene standards.
• Implement and monitor risk management procedures for large-scale events and high-traffic functions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management or a related field.
• Minimum 8–10 years of banquet or events operations experience in luxury hotels.
• Proven experience in a senior leadership role overseeing large event operations.
• Pre-opening hotel experience is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of luxury service standards and high-volume banquet operations.

Success Profile

• Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent planning, coordination, and problem-solving abilities.
• Financial acumen with strong cost control and labor management skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced, pre-opening environment.
• High attention to detail and commitment to service excellence.

Why Join Us?

Mandarin Oriental offers a world-class environment where your expertise, creativity, and leadership will shape the legacy of our return to Manila. You will be part of a dynamic preopening team committed to excellence, innovation, and authentic Asian hospitality.

Our commitment to you:

• Learning & Development. Your success is our success. We craft unique learning and development programmes for various stages in your career so that you grow, continuously.
• MOstay. When you work as hard as our colleagues do, it’s important to take time off. As a member of the #MOfamily, you can stay with us wherever you go in the world. The MOstay programme offers complimentary nights and additionally attractive rates on rooms for you and your loved ones.
• Heath & Colleague Wellness. Finding the right work-life balance is important. Your wellbeing matters to us. A variety of health benefits and wellness programmes are offered to all our colleagues, globally.

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