CATERING DIRECTOR - Chartwells Higher Education -New York, NY

Compass Group•New York, NY

1d•$85,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Catering is responsible for the strategic leadership, financial performance, and operational execution of all catering services within a Chartwells Higher Education account. This role drives revenue growth, profitability, client satisfaction, and service excellence while ensuring full alignment with Compass Group standards and campus client expectations. This position operates as a senior leader within the dining services organization, partnering closely with campus stakeholders, culinary leadership, and regional Compass leadership to deliver innovative, data-driven catering programs. The Director of Catering serves as the primary client-facing leader for catering services, providing insights, continuous improvement strategies, and long-term business development.

Requirements

5–8+ years of progressive leadership experience in catering, hospitality, or food service
Advanced financial acumen (profit margin, food cost, COGA, labor management, budgeting)
Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
Expertise in menu engineering and cost control
Experience in market analysis and strategic planning
Exceptional client relationship management and presentation skills
Strong leadership, delegation, and team development capabilities
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, service-driven environment

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or related field preferred
Experience in higher education dining or large-scale contract food service preferred
Proven track record managing high-volume, multi-functional operations

Responsibilities

Provide strategic direction and oversight for Catering Sales, Catering Operations, and Production teams
Lead, develop, and mentor salaried managers and frontline associates
Build and sustain a high-performing, inclusive team culture aligned with Compass values
Oversee hiring, onboarding, workforce planning, and succession development
Drive performance management processes including evaluations, coaching, and engagement initiatives
Serve as the primary senior-level liaison between Chartwells and university stakeholders
Lead and participate in client meetings, presentations, and event debriefs
Reviewing past event performance using data and feedback
Providing strategic recommendations for improvement
Planning future events aligned with client goals
Build strong partnerships with campus departments, faculty, and administration
Ensure all client interactions are proactive, consultative, and solution-oriented