Catering Manager-Emory University

Salary: $60,000 – $70,000 / year

About the role

Emory University Oxford College is seeking a dynamic and service-oriented Catering Manager to lead the planning and execution of a wide range of campus events. This role is responsible for overseeing daily catering operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences, managing event logistics, and developing a high-performing team. The Catering Manager serves as a key liaison between clients, culinary teams, and operations staff to deliver memorable events that reflect the university’s standards for hospitality and excellence.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of catering operations, including event planning, execution, setup, service, and breakdown.
• Coordinate logistics for campus events ranging from meetings and receptions to large-scale university functions and special occasions.
• Partner with culinary leadership to develop menus that meet client needs while maintaining quality, presentation, and budget objectives.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise catering staff, ensuring exceptional service standards and operational consistency.
• Oversee event staffing and direct temporary or seasonal team members as needed.
• Monitor food and labor costs, maintain event profitability, and support budget management efforts.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and university policies and procedures.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with campus partners, clients, students, faculty, and staff.
• Collaborate with operations and leadership teams to continuously improve service quality and guest satisfaction.
• Support other dining and hospitality initiatives as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years of foodservice or hospitality experience, including at least 1 year in a supervisory or management role.
• Catering experience required, preferably within higher education, hotels, conference centers, restaurants, or other high-volume hospitality environments.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, event management, food presentation, and service standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and deliver exceptional customer service.
• Experience managing labor, food costs, and event budgets.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• ServSafe Certification preferred or ability to obtain upon hire.

Skills

• Passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.
• Commitment to teamwork, professionalism, and service excellence.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and special events as needed.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance / AD&D
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave