Manager, Catering

About This Role

Managing catering services is the core of this role, encompassing planning, execution, and client coordination. The successful candidate will oversee menu development, food preparation, delivery, and service, while also managing invoicing and payments. This position involves maintaining strong relationships with the community, vendors, and clients to meet catering revenue goals.

Responsibilities

• Meet with current and potential customers to review catering options, including menu, budget, pricing, and dietary needs
• Coordinate event bookings and menu item selection, negotiating pricing to ensure profitability of catering services
• Work with chefs to ensure food is made according to the menu and special-order requirements
• Ensure food orders are placed in a timely manner and coordinate with vendors as necessary
• Work with cross-functional departments (e.g., bakery, deli) to coordinate preparation and timely delivery of foods to assigned venues
• Oversee associates responsible for preparing and packaging food, catering deliveries, and the set-up, preparation, and serving of food at assigned venues
• Prepare invoices for clients, process and ensure accurate and timely payments, and provide receipts to clients
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with the community, vendors, potential clients, and current clients to ensure excellent customer service and meet customer and vendor expectations, achieving catering revenue goals
• Maintain the eCommerce site for seasonal items, gift baskets, etc. as assigned
• Maintain a clean and well-stocked department; ensure compliance with Company safety and sanitation procedures and standards
• Responsible for department management including staffing, training, performance management, career development of associates, and developing and monitoring department goals
• Develop and monitor department budget as required
• Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed

Requirements

• High School Diploma (Required) GED or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Two years of catering, retail, restaurant, customer service, and/or related experience required
• Valid driver's license and ability to drive company vehicles
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong customer service skills
• Good organization, prioritization, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
• Good bookkeeping skills and negotiation skills
• Strong leadership abilities with capability to work in a hands-on environment
• Knowledge of catering operations and retail systems
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)