Director of Events & Catering - The Starting Gate

About the Role

Leads the catering sales and event execution teams at our premier luxury golf resort in Western Massachusetts. This role drives revenue through weddings, corporate events, life celebrations, and high-end social galas. The ideal candidate blends sharp sales acumen with an obsession for detail and luxury hospitality standards. You will oversee events from initial inquiry through flawless execution regardless of event size.

Responsibilities

• Sales & Revenue Management
  • Drive Revenue: Meet and exceed annual catering sales goals for weddings and social events.
  • Strategic Pricing: Partner with the Executive Chef to develop lucrative catering menus and package pricing customized for elite clientele.
  • Contract Management: Negotiate complex event contracts and food and beverage minimums.
  • Market Upselling: Maximize client spending per event through premium liquor packages, upgraded decor, and golf add-ons.
• Event Planning & Execution
  • Detailed Planning: Design detailed Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) mapping out timelines, menus, and setups.
  • Golf Coordination: Partner with the Head Golf Professional to seamlessly blend golf tee times with premium dining.
  • Vendor Relations: Manage relationships with elite external vendors including florists, designers, and entertainment.
  • On-Site Leadership: Oversee major event setups to guarantee five-star luxury presentation and timing.
• Team Leadership & Operations
  • Staff Mentorship: Recruit, train, and inspire catering event & sales managers and event coordinators. Oversee a team of 50 including servers, bartenders, and valet.
  • Cross-Department Synergy: Collaborate daily with the Executive Chef, Sales Team, Events Managers, F&B Department, and Golf Operations.
  • Versatility: Develop and maintain hands-on experience in every department, with the flexibility to fill any role and provide support as operational needs require.
  • Financial Accountability: Manage a multi-million-dollar venue. Forecast monthly and yearly revenues, manage the department budget and labor reports, track P&L's on each event, and approve vendor invoices.
  • Professionalism: Proven ability to work directly with high-profile clientele, executive leadership, and venue ownership.

Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 7-10 years of catering sales leadership in a luxury resort, hotel, or prestigious country club.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in hospitality management, Business Administration, or a related field; experience required.
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of luxury service standards, high-end food trends, and fine wine/spirits pairings.
• Skills: Proficiency with catering and logistical software (e.g., NorthStar, Social Tables, Canva, Circuit, and Microsoft Office Suite).

Schedule

Flexibility to work long hours, weekends, and holidays based on event calendars.

Physical Demands

• Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity most of the workday.
• Required to exert physical effort in handling objects more or less than 30 pounds.
• Required to walk or stand for extended periods.

About the Venue

Nestled in the heart of scenic western Massachusetts, The Starting Gate at GreatHorse offers an unparalleled setting for your special event. With rustic elegance and picturesque views, our venue provides the perfect blend of charm and sophistication. We pride ourselves on offering a truly exclusive experience, hosting only one event per day, to ensure your celebration is the sole focus of our dedicated team. Enjoy five-star dining tailored to your tastes and impeccable service in an atmosphere of luxury and refinement. From our expansive grounds to the carefully designed interiors, The Starting Gate offers an unforgettable backdrop for any occasion!