Houseman, Banquets & Events

Houseman Banquets & Events

This position is spread over two historic, multi-room buildings, formal gardens, outdoor terraces, and an onsite parking lot. Under the supervision of the Associate Director of Event Operations and Houseman Supervisor this role serves as a hands-on key player in the setup, breakdown, logistics, and communication of onsite events. This position will be expected to both perform and oversee tasks related to event operations. Some performance and oversight of tangential functions (namely Housekeeping, Catering set-up, Security, and Maintenance) will be expected as well.

This position is located in Washington D.C. and Meridian requires MD, DC, or VA residence for all employees. The position may work partially remotely until further notice.

Position Responsibilities

• Front and back of house event support duties including but not limited to the setup and breakdown of furniture, equipment, and AV; banquet F&B support, and coordination / communications with staff and vendors
• Manages and mentors event operations team members in the successful execution of event setup details and routine daily operational tasks focused on conference and special event implementation
• Quality control, including reviewing event setups for accuracy and identifying needed maintenance and housekeeping
• Will be assigned weekly, monthly and quarterly projects for self, including but not limited to: Chandelier cleaning, silver polishing, outdoor furniture cleaning and storage, polishing brass, breaking down and storing buffet items, assisting with maintaining garden and terrace areas and minor repairs as needed
• Oversight, in collaboration with Maintenance team, of general safety/security, including but not limited to securing of doors, gates and windows; may provide some limited event security and reception services as needed
• Responsible for completing all organizational administrative responsibilities in a timely manner and meeting all organizational administrative deadlines
• Responsible for completing daily/weekly/monthly special assignment sheets
• Full Time with a variable schedule; Days and shift times will vary based on events and department needs. As early as 6am and late as 1am on occasion
• This position is considered essential and may be required to work during emergency closings
• Some weekends will be required

Education/Experience

• 3-5 years of experience applicable to the responsibilities of the position
• Professional experience in the luxury hospitality industry, such as Hotel Banquet Houseman
• Experience in non-profits, event centers, and/or historic buildings a plus
• Some experience with Audio/Visual equipment is highly desired
• Work well with staff teams, from sales to operations

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Superior attention to detail and excellent time management; must take initiative and self-motivate
• Ability to think critically and make decisions while balancing and adjusting for multiple competing and changing priorities; ability to always maintain a professional demeanor and appearance
• Dedication to providing excellent service at all times as a hands-on supportive member with high energy and a can-do attitude
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills; Spanish is highly desirable
• Strong inter-cultural communication skills; maturity, cultural sensitivity, and tact suitable for working with individuals from around the world
• Supervisory and project management experience is desired
• Must be able to climb stairs, stand and walk for extended periods, carry heavy items and other equipment (up to 50 lbs.)
• Demonstrates a professional, guest-focused demeanor
• Provides effective team leadership and clear supervision
• Maintains reliability and punctuality in all scheduled responsibilities
• Adapts effectively to changing event needs and operational priorities
• Identifies needs, takes initiative, and follows through on tasks independently
• Applies strong situational awareness to prioritize work within shifting departmental goals
• Coordinates and directs both individual tasks and team efforts to meet evolving priorities

Technical Requirements:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Outlook and Teams is necessary for this role
• Experience with Canva, Zoom and Salesforce is helpful
• Comfortable using computers, smartphones, app and web-based systems

Employer's Statement

Meridian is committed to empowering global leaders and amplifying voices of a wide variety of backgrounds to create pathways for greater understanding, shared values, and respect. Connecting people has been our foundation for over 65 years. If you share our values and enthusiasm to promote non-partisan collaboration to address global challenges and opportunities, you can find a home at Meridian.

As an equal opportunity employer, Meridian promotes equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, personal appearance, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, family responsibilities, marital, veteran or military status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. Equal employment opportunity will be offered and maintained to all persons at every stage and condition of employment, including recruiting, hiring, training, upgrading, promotion, transfer, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination.

Meridian offers a comprehensive benefits package including a full medical plan with no deductible, dental (including orthodontics), a retirement plan with a substantial employer contribution from day one, fully paid life, long- and short-term disability, a variety of voluntary benefits, and generous paid leave and holidays.

How to Apply

Please submit both a resume and a cover letter with your application; submissions missing either document will not be considered.

Qualified candidates should apply here. Only candidates being considered for this position will be contacted. NO PHONE CALLS in reference to this position will be accepted.