Catering & Events Intern, Chartwells Higher Ed / Eastern Michigan University

General Description

The Catering Intern will work closely with the Senior Catering Manager at Eastern Michigan University, learning the intricacies of catering from both a sales and operations standpoint. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work directly with catering clients to coordinate the details of their events including but not limited to menu selections, tastings, linen rental, set up, and floral design. Additionally, in this role you will learn how to properly set up and execute events following the specific timeline and guidelines for each event.

Qualifications for Catering/Event Planning Internship

• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal
• Customer service experience/knowledge
• Must be undergraduate student
• Availability to work evenings and weekends, if needed
• Enjoy building relationships
• Professional attitude and appearance
• Ability to operate multiple computer programs and office equipment
• Experience working with MAC’s and PC’s
• Interest in one or more of the following: Sustainability, Farm to Fork, Quality Assurance, Current Catering Trends, Menu Development, Contract Food Service Management

Job Responsibilities (May include any or all)

• Aid in planning and organizing events
• Assist with set up and break down of events, when needed
• Complete safety training for proper lifting techniques
• Aid the culinary team in developing custom menus for events
• Work closely with vendor partners (I.E: rentals, florists, bakeries, etc.) in arranging services
• Assist in marketing catering services both on and off campus
• Aid in inventory management
• Aid in staff training on catering standards
• Aid in keeping staff motivated to provide the highest standard of service
• Follow Up: This will enable the planner to understand what the strengths were from the event and anything necessary for improvement; Keep an ongoing relationship with the client(s).

Learning Objectives

• Demonstrate awareness, understanding and skills necessary to work in a diverse environment.
• Experience opportunities to learn, observe, and practice a variety of experiences in the world of hospitality.
• Spend time cultivating outside sales with the director of catering, looking for new opportunities and venues.
• Understanding the process of event planning from the initial contact with the client and the steps that are taken to execute the event.
• Providing prices and fees; tailoring the event to any special needs or wants.
• Communicating the expectations and meeting the goals, keeping on the same page.
• Fine tuning the details of the event; the blueprint.
• Discussing the terms of the contract, the services being provided, solidifying dates and deadlines, necessary staffing, policies of the event/cancellations, parking, etc.
• Examining the financials, collecting payment, menu costing etc...
• Keep an ongoing relationship with the client(s).

Pay and Benefits

This is a paid intern position; however, it is not eligible for paid time off (PTO) or benefits such as medical, dental, vision, etc. Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Maryland, Washington State, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company’s behalf may be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods. Business needs may vary from year to year.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation.