Catering and Events Manager
About The Position
Bon Appetit Management Company is seeking a creative and organized Catering and Events Manager to lead event operations in San Jose, California. The role owns the end-to-end event experience, ensuring each function reflects the values and standards of the food program. The manager directs, trains, and motivates a dedicated team while overseeing event logistics, culinary innovation, hospitality, and food safety. This role reports to the Catering Director and works with Culinary, Marketing, Concept Development, and Risk Management stakeholders to promote program standards and improve the partner experience. The position is typically scheduled Monday through Friday, with flexibility to work evenings or weekends based on business needs and specific events. The schedule and location may change as business demands evolve. Bon Appetit emphasizes creative, high-quality food and outstanding service, and encourages its staff to grow, learn, and bring current culinary trends into its cafes and events.
Requirements
- At least 3–5 years of applicable experience in high-volume catering, event management, or a premium hospitality leadership environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to lead diverse teams and influence stakeholders.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt quickly in a fast-paced, changing environment.
- Working knowledge of Google Suite, including Sheets, Docs, and Slides.
- Demonstrable passion for high-quality food preparation, taste, and innovative presentation.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively while treating people with professionalism, care, and respect.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience; a bachelor’s degree is preferred but not required.
- ServSafe Manager Certification.
- Experience leading and navigating within a union environment.
Responsibilities
- Design, manage, and own the holistic event experience, ensuring every touchpoint, from decor to service, exceeds expectations.
- Establish and maintain warm, inclusive hospitality that proactively engages guests across event types.
- Ensure daily catering orders are processed and fulfilled accurately and in accordance with partner and sector expectations.
- Create specialty menus and event concepts tailored to client needs and aligned with budget guidelines and unit standards.
- Train, develop, and schedule catering associates; provide ongoing education in service techniques, menu presentation, merchandising, and standard policies.
- Conduct employee reviews, coaching sessions, and development actions professionally and promptly.
- Promote food, allergen, and workplace safety and ensure events meet safety and risk management standards.
- Respond to guest feedback within 24 hours and communicate with partners honestly, accurately, and clearly.
- Meet weekly, monthly, quarterly, and year-end reporting deadlines required by partners and sector leadership.
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life and accidental death insurance
- Disability insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Holiday time off, varying by site and 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
- Potential paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
