Catering Manager

Job Type: Direct Hire

About the Job

You will lead the planning and execution of catering operations to deliver exceptional service and support business growth. Combining creativity with practical insights, you’ll help create memorable client experiences while supporting operational efficiency. Working collaboratively across teams, you will develop and implement strategies to strengthen client relationships.

You will manage people, set direction, and deploy resources. Responsibilities typically include performance evaluations, pay reviews, and hiring and termination decisions. Results are achieved primarily through the work of others and depend on your ability to influence and negotiate across the organization. You will be accountable for business, functional, or operational areas, processes, or programs, which may include matrixed management.

What You’ll Do

• Manage and oversee catering events to ensure seamless execution and an exceptional client experience.
• Motivate, coach, mentor, and develop frontline staff to support performance and growth.
• Recruit, train, and lead a team of supervisors and frontline employees.
• Collaborate with clients and operational leaders to align goals and deliver tailored solutions.
• Develop menus and manage costing to balance creativity, quality, and profitability.
• Oversee Zoellner Arts Center events and concessions, including the Concessions Supervisor.
• Manage the Iacocca Conference Center, including booking events, conducting tours, and serving as the on-site event contact as needed.
• Help coordinate deliveries around campus for all units.
• Address guest-related issues during or after events.
• Oversee daily or weekly checks of uniforms, pest control, HACCP, and NSF standards at the Iacocca Conference Center and Zoellner Arts Center.
• Oversee catering operations, including transportation across campus, equipment, logistics, and the vehicle fleet.
• Continue developing the employee training program, including advanced server training and training for cashiers, utility staff, and chefs.
• Oversee supervisors responsible for equipment organization and cleaning checklists; ensure daily, weekly, and monthly safety checklists are completed and staff follow safety and sanitation policies.
• Walk through catering areas to ensure safety and sanitation practices are followed.
• Cover department meetings as needed and assist with weekly huddles, safety, customer service, and ambassador programs.
• Treat staff with respect and common courtesy.

What You’ll Bring

• Extensive catering knowledge and the ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.
• Strong client-service skills and the ability to build lasting relationships.
• Proven leadership skills, including motivating teams, delegating, and managing performance.
• Experience coordinating and directing complex catering operations and resolving conflicts.
• Ability to collaborate across functions and regions.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• At least 3 years of management experience and 3 years of related experience.

What We Offer

Compensation is fair and equitable and is partially determined by education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate’s experience, skills, education, and training. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision care, and wellness programs
• 401(k) plan with matching contributions
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Career growth opportunities and tuition reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.