Catering Manager – University Dining & Events
Job Summary
Johnson City Tennessee
We are seeking an experienced Catering Manager to oversee high-volume catering operations within a dynamic university dining environment. This role is responsible for managing catering sales event execution food production coordination staffing budgeting and client satisfaction across a wide range of campus and VIP events.
The ideal candidate brings strong leadership skills hands-on operational experience and the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously in a fast-paced hospitality setting.
- Oversee daily catering operations ensuring successful planning and execution of events
- Manage high-volume catering functions including VIP and special events
- Coordinate closely with culinary catering sales conference services and front-of-house teams
- Supervise catering staff including scheduling training coaching and performance management
- Ensure timely and accurate delivery of catering services and event setups
- Monitor labor costs inventory equipment usage and operational expenses to maintain budget goals
- Support catering revenue growth through strong client service and operational excellence
- Manage invoice processing procurement coordination and event documentation
- Maintain compliance with food safety sanitation and workplace safety standards
- Handle multiple events simultaneously while maintaining high service standards
- Utilize workforce management and scheduling systems to support labor planning and payroll processes
- Bachelors degree preferred
- Minimum 3 years of experience in catering hospitality food production or food service management
- Minimum 3 years of leadership or supervisory experience within catering or hospitality operations
- Experience managing high-volume catering programs and multiple concurrent events
- Experience supporting VIP or high-profile events preferred
- Strong background in budget management labor control inventory management and operational planning
- Excellent communication organization and problem-solving skills
- Experience with workforce management or timekeeping systems such as Kronos is a plus
- Ability to work in a fast-paced customer-focused environment
- Catering management
- Catering sales and event coordination
- Food production and service operations
- Inventory and procurement management
- Labor cost control and budgeting
- Staff scheduling and payroll coordination
- Conference and event services
- Food safety and sanitation compliance
- Client relationship management
- Competitive compensation package
- Relocation assistance
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical dental vision and retirement plans
- Paid time off and company holidays
- Career development and growth opportunities
- Tuition reimbursement programs
This position operates within a high-volume university dining and catering environment and requires flexibility to support evenings weekends and special events as needed.