JOSEPH DE JESUS
Astoria,NY
Summary
Dynamic, solutions-driven banquet director with extensive expertise in managing large-scale catering operations, luxury event production, and client relations. Renowned for decisive leadership and a proven ability to thrive in complex, high-pressure environments while maintaining exceptional operational discipline. Skilled communicator adept at fostering trusted relationships with planners, vendors, media representatives, Fortune 500 corporations, non-profits, and C-level executives. Committed to elevating service standards through enhanced operational efficiency, financial accountability, and guest experience excellence via strategic event planning and team leadership.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Banquets
The Pier Sixty Collection
New York, NY
01.2024 - Current
- Directed comprehensive oversight of multi-venue luxury event operations, including Pier Sixty, The Lighthouse, and Current.
- Analyzed and refined operational processes to improve resource allocation and drive performance in $60 million business unit.
- Oversee event production for up to 2,000 guests (cocktail receptions) and 1,200 guests (seated dinners)
- Direct all front-of-house banquet operations ensuring seamless execution of high-profile weddings, corporate galas, conferences, and nonprofit events
- Lead cross-functional coordination between Culinary, Engineering, Sales, Guest Services, and external vendors
- Implement SOPs, staffing strategies, and service standards aligned with luxury hospitality benchmarks
- Manage labor forecasting, payroll, budgeting, and cost controls for high-volume banquet operations
- Optimize staffing models across in-house teams and multiple temporary staffing agencies
- Analyze gratuity structures, agency spend, and operational efficiencies to improve profitability
- Collaborate with executive leadership on forecasting, scheduling strategy, and long-term growth initiatives
- Staff & Performance Management
- Direct, mentor, and oversee large teams of Event Managers, Captains, Servers, and Support Staff
- Lead performance management processes including accountability systems, structured coaching, and seasonal training programs
- Design and implement biannual training initiatives for in-house and agency staff
- Maintain luxury service standards through structured audits and operational oversight
- Guest Experience & Quality Control
- Ensure flawless execution of high-profile and VIP events
- Proactively resolve operational challenges while maintaining client confidence
- Oversee room turns, load-ins/load-outs, and production integration
- Uphold exceptional presentation standards across all event spaces
- Directed planning and execution of large-scale banquet events, ensuring seamless operations and guest satisfaction.
- Collaborated with culinary team to design innovative menu offerings tailored to diverse client needs.
Director of Operations
Guastavino’s & 583 Park Avenue Event Spaces
New York, NY
10.2011 - 01.2024
- Directed operational frameworks and event logistics for an 11 million dollar venue to facilitate smooth operations and strengthen stakeholder relationships.
- Directed general operations for two event venues with capacities of up to 1,500 guests (receptions) and 650 guests (seated functions)
- Managed all aspects of event execution from setup to breakdown
- Coordinated closely with Culinary and Events teams on menu execution, timing, and service flow
- Team & Financial Management
- Oversaw up to 100 front-of-house and kitchen employees
- Managed payroll processing, budgeting, and forecasting through Paycom
- Recruited, trained, mentored, and supervised staff to uphold high service standards
- Scheduled staffing levels and supervised vendor coordination
- Process & Quality Control
- Developed detailed operational assignments and service briefings
- Controlled inventory and purchasing for beverages, linens, and operational supplies
- Monitored facility conditions and ensured alignment with client specifications
- Maintained strict adherence to luxury presentation and service standards
- Streamlined operational processes to enhance event execution efficiency.
- Led cross-functional teams to coordinate high-profile events seamlessly.
Education
Associate of Arts - Performing Arts
Westchester Community College
Valhalla, NY01-2009
Skills
- Event execution skills
- Menu development expertise
- Strategic marketing
- Collaborative vendor negotiation
- Budget analysis skills
- Cross-functional teamwork
Certification
- CPR Certified
- F-03 Fire Safety Certified
Timeline
Director of Banquets
The Pier Sixty Collection
01.2024 - Current
Director of Operations
Guastavino’s & 583 Park Avenue Event Spaces
10.2011 - 01.2024
Associate of Arts - Performing Arts
Westchester Community College