Catering and Conference Service Director (Salary)

Human Resources Team•Waimea, HI

11d

About The Position

The Director of Catering & Conference Services (DOCC) serves as a strategic and operational leader responsible for delivering exceptional group, wedding, and social events that reflect the legendary service, culture, and spirit of Aloha synonymous with Mauna Kea Resort. This role oversees all catering and conference services operations, guiding a high-performing team to flawlessly execute events while maximizing revenue, profitability, and guest satisfaction. The DOCCS partners closely with Sales, Food & Beverage, Operations, and external stakeholders to bring each our customers vision to life through seamless logistics, and elevated experiences which are infused with Hawaiian culture. With a strong focus on financial stewardship, team development, and innovation, this role ensures every event meets the highest standards of quality, service, and authenticity.

Requirements

5–6 years of progressive leadership experience in catering, conference services, or hospitality operations
Demonstrated ability to lead teams and achieve revenue and service goals
Strong financial acumen and analytical skills
Proven ability to resolve client concerns professionally and efficiently
Warm, professional demeanor aligned with luxury hospitality standards
Strong organizational and prioritization skills
Ability to perform under pressure, multitask, and manage time-sensitive priorities
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
Ability to present effectively to both small and large groups
Skilled in training, coaching, and documentation (procedures, policies, manuals)
Strong negotiation and contract management capabilities
Ability to work extended, irregular, and flexible hours
Must be able to work in excess of 40 hours per week as business demands require
Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Nice To Haves

Experience with Marriott catering systems (CI/TY) preferred

Responsibilities

Recruit, train, mentor, and develop Catering & Conference Services (CCS) team members, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous growth.
Lead and inspire the CCS team through clear direction, performance coaching, and recognition, cultivating a positive and energetic workplace culture.
Establish, maintain, and continuously improve departmental policies, procedures, and service standards to ensure consistency and excellence.
Review, approve, and verify department payroll, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Develop and manage the annual banquet, catering revenue, operating, and travel & expense budgets in alignment with overall resort financial objectives.
Review all vendor proposals, catering contracts, and financial details to ensure profitability, revenue optimization, and protection of the resort’s financial interests.
Prepare accurate monthly forecasts and reports to support budgeting, strategic planning, and performance tracking.
Oversee departmental operating expenses, ensuring cost controls and adherence to budgetary guidelines.
Assign group, wedding, and social catering events to CCS managers and coordinators to ensure seamless execution and balanced workloads.
Engage directly with clients to secure bookings, develop customized menu proposals and contracts, and strategically upsell services to enhance the guest experience and drive incremental revenue.
Proactively solicit and manage key annual accounts while building strong relationships within the local and destination markets.
Conduct site inspections and host clients to showcase resort offerings and strengthen long-term partnerships.
Ensure flawless execution of all events by coordinating function space, food & beverage, décor, entertainment, and operational logistics in alignment with brand standards and client expectations.
Approve and manage function space bookings during peak demand periods, maximizing utilization of all indoor and outdoor venues.
Collaborate closely with operational departments to ensure clear communication, alignment, and exceptional event delivery.
Lead resort-wide event and operations meetings to ensure alignment across departments and anticipate client needs.
Develop and implement creative concepts for themed events, décor, menus, and entertainment to deliver distinctive and memorable experiences.
Remain current on industry trends, particularly in food & beverage, events, and guest experience innovation.
Maintain thorough knowledge of local liquor laws, county ordinances, and regulatory requirements to ensure full compliance.
Oversee billing processes and ensure all accounts, including master accounts, are settled accurately and to the satisfaction of both the client and the resort.
Address and resolve client concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring exceptional service recovery when needed.
Perform additional duties as required to support departmental and resort objectives.