This role involves planning, coordinating, executing, and ensuring the quality control of catering events. It supports the Event/Catering Sales and Culinary teams by leading catering logistics. The position requires fundamental knowledge of client relationships, event logistics, and delivering customer satisfaction, ultimately aiming to deliver seamless and memorable events.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement detailed plans for catering events, including event orders, pull sheets, execution timelines, staffing schedules, visual appeal, and logistics layouts
Coordinate with sales representatives to understand event requirements and ensure all details are accurately captured and executed
Oversee the setup, execution, and breakdown of events, ensuring all aspects run smoothly and efficiently
Ensure all equipment, supplies, and materials are available and in good working condition for events
Walk event spaces with the Sales Team before events to ensure everything is in working order and address any issues promptly
Communicate and collaborate effectively with the Sales Team, Culinary Team, and other departments involved in events, developing and implementing new strategies and procedures where necessary to ensure events are executed flawlessly
Attend weekly BEO meetings to review all upcoming events, addressing concerns and needs for each event
Distribute Operations Plan revisions to key stakeholders when necessary
Advise Sales Team on any outstanding balances due post event
Collaborate with Sales Team on floorplans and event flow
Coordinate the need of cross-utilized products/equipment
Create eye-catching and innovative F&B displays in collaboration with the Culinary Team
Oversee quality, product levels, and inventory of Catering products
Facilitate the maintenance and repairs of Catering equipment as necessary
Maintain strong, positive relationships with internal and external clients to ensure repeat business and client satisfaction
Conduct pre-event meetings with internal stakeholders to finalize details and post-event follow-ups to gather feedback and foster continued development
Work closely with clients to provide tailored solutions and address any concerns promptly
Act as client day-of contact for catering services
Maintain communication with vendors to ensure timely delivery of goods and services
Negotiate pricing and contracts with vendors to optimize costs and quality
Uphold an active list of resources for client and internal operational use
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
200,000+
New jobs added daily
7,000,000+
Verified job listings
1,000,000+
Tailored applications submitted
Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures
Develop, meet, and exceed monthly and annual catering operations budgets and plans
Analyze operational costs and inventory to maximize opportunities and minimize waste
Review all invoices, bills, and accounting-related documents for accuracy and communicate necessary changes to Accounts Payable
Minimize controllable costs, including payroll and equipment rental, associated with the operation and strategize on revenue avenues
Report weekly and monthly operational performance to appropriate stakeholders, including labor forecasting and event P&L statements
Analyze event performance data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement
Responsible for budgeting, forecasting and cost control (e.g., labor costs, food costs and profitability)
Promote an inclusive and supportive approach within the unit
Lead by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; display knowledge of efforts in business application
Engage with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus on opportunities of giving back
Perform other tasks as deemed necessary
Requirements
Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization
Fundamental leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships
Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized
Demonstrates financial management, analytical, and planning skills
Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment
Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions
Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above
Must be comfortable working in an outdoor environment, including exposure to the elements (for outdoor venues only)
Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed
No prior experience is required, however knowledge of catering operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred
Candidates with 1 or more years of experience will be given stronger consideration
All education backgrounds eligible
Must be 18 or older
Nice to have:
Working knowledge of Tripleseat
Benefits
Paid Time Off
Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
Supplemental Insurance
401(K) + Company Match
Employee Assistance Program
Training & Career Development
Get Paid Early
Tuition Discount through Partnership College
Parental Leave
Meal Plan & employee Discounts
About the Company
SSA Group works with zoos, aquariums, museums, and other cultural attractions on integrating dining, retail, admissions and more. It increases revenue opportunities for partners across the United States. With 50 years in the business, SSA has refined the basics while pioneering better ways forward, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. SSA Group was built by families, for families, with a family
’s sense of love and dedication, customizing best practices for each partner to set the bar higher and higher.
