Assistant Catering Manager
About The Position
Davidson College is seeking an organized, collaborative, and service-oriented Assistant Catering Manager to join our campus catering team. Operating under our signature brand, Much Ado Catering, this role is critical to the daily success of our front-of-house operations. The Assistant Catering Manager coordinates the logistical details and execution for a diverse portfolio of campus events, ranging from high-profile presidential dinners to large-scale student celebrations and smaller departmental functions. The ideal candidate brings strong supervisory experience, exceptional communication skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a positive attitude. Reporting directly to the Catering Manager, you will help lead a dedicated team to deliver seamless hospitality and maintain Davidson’s high standards of service.
Requirements
- 2+ years of progressive supervisory experience in high-volume catering, corporate hospitality, hotel banquets, or higher-education food service operations.
- Strong administrative competency, including experience managing staff schedules, ordering supplies, and utilizing event booking software (e.g., Catertrax or Jamix).
- Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate professionally with student workers, culinary teams, and high-level college executives alike.
- Active ServSafe Manager Certification, or the ability to obtain it within 30 days of hire.
- Valid state-issued driver’s license required to safely operate departmental vehicles.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Food Service Management, or a related field (equivalent hands-on professional leadership experience will be considered).
Responsibilities
- Supervise on-site event operations, including the complete setup, service execution, and breakdown of catered events across campus.
- Coordinate logistical elements such as equipment layout, physical assets, and venue timing, working closely with the Catering Chef and campus partners.
- Act as the primary manager on duty during events, maintaining a calm, professional demeanor while troubleshooting and resolving operational issues on the fly.
- Oversee transport logistics and vehicle fleet ensuring the safe loading, delivery, and unloading of food and equipment using departmental vehicles.
- Help manage the daily administration of the catering office, directly supporting the Catering Manager with essential tasks as assigned.
- Create and manage weekly schedules for catering student workers, the Assistant Manager serves as the primary point of communication and contact for student workers.
- Train, supervise, and mentor a diverse team of full-time catering staff, temporary labor, and student workers, ensuring strict adherence to hospitality standards and safety protocols.
- Maintain accurate inventory counts for front-of-house assets, including specialized linens, serving equipment, china, and event décor.
- Enforce food safety and allergy compliance, ensuring service lines are clearly labeled and staff are well-trained on guest dietary restrictions.
- Audit compliance regarding local health regulations, campus safety protocols, and state laws.
- Coaching and correction to make sure all Much Ado staff are consistently following policy and procedure, and the Davidson College mission.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plan designs.
- Generous retirement benefits with an institutional employer match.
- Paid time off, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Free shift meals at on campus dining hall
- Access to athletic tickets, campus facilities, and institutional discounts.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
