Catering - IC - Assistant Operations Manager

About the role

The Assistant Manager, Catering Operations supports the Event/Catering Sales and Culinary teams by leading the catering logistics planning, coordination, execution, and quality control of events. This role involves proficient knowledge of client relationships, event logistics, and delivering customer satisfaction. This position is ultimately responsible for the delivery of 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.
• Cook up and execute 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 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 to 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.
• Cross-utilize products/equipment as needed.
• 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.
• Engage in social responsibility initiatives.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.
• Proficient 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.
• (Outdoor Venues Only): Must be comfortable working in an outdoor environment, including exposure to the elements.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.
• Minimum 2 years catering operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience is required for this position; however, candidates with 4 or more years of experience will be given stronger consideration.
• Working knowledge of Tripleseat is a plus.

Requirements

• Must be 18 or older.

Key Skills

• Event Planning
• Logistics Coordination
• Client Relationship Management
• Vendor Management
• Financial Management
• Operational Excellence
• Social Responsibility

Benefits

• Paid Time Off
• Medical | Dental | Vision
• Supplemental Insurance
• 401(K) + Company Match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Training & Career Development
• Get Paid Early
• Tuition Discount through Partnership College
• Meal Plan & Employee Discounts