Catering Chef Manager - Trinity SchooI

Compass Group•New York, NY

13d•$90,000 - $95,000•Onsite

About The Position

Flik Independent School Dining is a leader in transforming private and independent school foodservice, with a commitment to exceptional experiences, fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and sustainable practices. They offer cutting-edge nutrition education programs to empower students. The company's mission is to nourish a brighter future by nourishing the whole person, creating community through food and programming, and doing what's right. As the Catering Chef Manager, you will lead all catering efforts, ensuring seamless execution of events from planning to completion. This role requires a talented chef with a strong culinary foundation, ideally with fine dining experience, to oversee client consultations, menu development, staff leadership, inventory control, and event execution. You will manage event logistics, staffing, service standards, and client communications, with a strong focus on food quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction. This position demands strong leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a multifaceted, school-based environment. Events range from small snack deliveries to formal plated dinners. The Catering Chef Manager plays a key role in upholding brand standards and creating memorable dining experiences for the school community.

Requirements

Minimum of 3 years of experience in hospitality, food and beverage management, or catering operations.
Culinary background required; fine dining experience strongly preferred.
Associate’s degree or higher in Hospitality Management, Event Planning, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
Experience in event planning, conference services, or campus catering environments strongly preferred.
Strong knowledge of food preparation, presentation standards, and current catering trends.
Proven leadership experience with the ability to train and develop service teams.
Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to interact effectively with diverse audiences.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and catering/event management software.
Creative, detail-oriented professional with a passion for hospitality, guest engagement, and community-building.

Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and execute catering events and campus programs, ensuring excellence in service, presentation, and overall experience.
Oversee all aspects of catered events, including client consultations, menu planning, staffing, logistics, and execution.
Collaborate with culinary teams to develop creative, high-quality menus aligned with client needs and event styles.
Lead event logistics, including setup, service, breakdown, and coordination of onsite operations.
Train and mentor catering associates in service techniques, menu presentation, food safety, and customer service excellence.
Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and quality standards at all times.
Build and maintain strong client relationships with students, faculty, parents, and school administrators to support community engagement and repeat business.
Partner with campus teams to create engaging, food-focused events that reflect the school culture.
Support marketing efforts, including social media content, promotions, and visual merchandising.
Gather and analyze guest feedback to continuously improve catering services and offerings.
Provide on-site leadership and problem-solving during events to ensure smooth, successful execution.
Utilize catering software platforms (e.g., Catertrax, Spoonfed) to manage event details and communications.
Monitor timelines, budgets, food and labor costs, and overall performance of catering programs.