CATERING DIRECTOR

Compass Group•New York, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Seeking an organized, customer-focused Catering Director to lead execution of on-site events, manage day-to-day catering operations, and grow revenue through creative marketing and business development. The ideal candidate ensures flawless event execution, builds client relationships, and drives repeat and new business.

Requirements

3+ years experience in catering, events, or hospitality management; prior experience managing events and staff.
Strong organizational skills with demonstrated ability to create and execute detailed runs of show and timelines.
Proven track record of driving revenue growth through marketing, partnerships, or business development.
Excellent client-facing communication, negotiation, and sales skills.
Ability to manage multiple events and priorities under pressure; flexible schedule.
Familiarity with catering operations: food service, beverage control, inventory, and vendor management.

Responsibilities

Oversee end-to-end execution of catering events (corporate, social, weddings, private parties), ensuring quality, timing, and client satisfaction.
Create, maintain, and manage detailed run-of-show documents and event timelines; coordinate vendors, staff, equipment, and venue logistics.
Lead and supervise catering teams (servers, bartenders, setup/teardown, chefs) including scheduling, training, and performance management.
Manage client communication from inquiry to post-event follow-up; conduct site visits and pre-event meetings.
Coordinate menu planning, special requests, dietary needs, and quality control with culinary team.
Develop and implement creative marketing strategies to grow catering revenue: targeted promotions, partnerships, social media campaigns, upsell packages, and local outreach.
Track leads, proposals, contracts, and conversion metrics; prepare regular sales and operations reports.
Maintain budgets, pricing strategies, inventory control, and vendor relationships; approve purchasing as needed.
Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations; uphold company standards for service and presentation.
Troubleshoot on-site issues quickly and professionally to maintain guest satisfaction.