CATERING DIRECTOR

Compass Group•Fairfax, VA

7d•$75,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The Catering Director leads catering and event operations for the Inova Conference Center. This visible leadership role oversees events from concept through execution, builds and maintains client relationships, and guides a team focused on excellent service. The director partners with clients to create customized experiences, ensures events are prepared and delivered successfully, and works with sales and conference services to support client satisfaction and business growth. The position manages budgets, revenue goals, and operational performance; recruits, trains, coaches, and develops team members; and ensures compliance with food safety, quality, and company standards. It also identifies and resolves event issues and seeks ways to improve service delivery and operational efficiency. The role calls for a hospitality leader with strong operational expertise, business acumen, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive amid changing priorities. The position offers a salary of $75,000–$80,000. Flik Hospitality Group describes a collaborative, guest-focused culture and career growth and development opportunities. Associates are offered a range of benefits, subject to applicable terms and eligibility.

Requirements

Positive attitude and strong leadership presence.
3–5 years of event execution experience.
Customer-focused, friendly, and outgoing, with a genuine commitment to excellent service.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
Proven ability to lead teams and deliver exceptional client experiences.

Nice To Haves

Previous catering, hospitality, conference center, hotel, or event management leadership experience.

Responsibilities

Lead all aspects of catering and event operations for the conference center.
Build and maintain positive relationships with clients, associates, and suppliers.
Ensure events are well prepared and executed successfully.
Identify and resolve event issues to minimize complications.
Partner with clients to understand their needs and deliver customized event experiences.
Manage budgets, revenue goals, and operational performance.
Recruit, train, coach, and develop a high-performing team.
Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and company standards.
Collaborate with sales and conference services teams to maximize client satisfaction and business growth.
Seek opportunities to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.