UNC Chapel Hill Catering Event Manager

Ogan Hospitality•Chapel Hill, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Catering Event Manager is responsible for overseeing and executing catering operations for all UNC Chapel Hill Athletic events. This role serves as the primary on-site leader for event execution, ensuring exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and adherence to UNC Athletics and company standards. The Catering Event Manager coordinates staffing, logistics, setup, service, and breakdown for athletic events ranging from small hospitality functions to large-scale game day operations. This position requires strong leadership, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Requirements

2-5 years of experience in catering, hospitality, sports and entertainment, or event management preferred.
Experience managing large-scale or high-volume events strongly preferred.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure in fast-paced environments.
Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence.
Ability to lead and motivate diverse teams in a professional manner.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and event management systems preferred.
Knowledge of food and beverage service standards.
Ability to problem-solve quickly and make sound decisions during live events.
Must be dependable, flexible, and team oriented.

Responsibilities

Manage all front-of-house catering operations for UNC Chapel Hill Athletic events, including football, basketball, baseball, Olympic sports, donor hospitality, VIP events, suites, and special athletic functions.
Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown to ensure all events meet company and client standards.
Serve as the on-site point of contact for athletic department representatives, clients, vendors, and staff during events.
Review event orders and communicate event details, timelines, staffing needs, and operational expectations to team members.
Supervise and lead event staff including captains, servers, bartenders, attendants, and support staff.
Ensure all buffets, displays, suites, clubs, and hospitality areas are properly set and maintained throughout events.
Monitor service quality, guest satisfaction, food presentation, cleanliness, and overall event flow.
Coordinate with culinary, warehouse, transportation, and operations teams to ensure timely delivery and execution of all event components.
Assist with staffing plans and labor management to maintain operational efficiency and budget goals.
Train, mentor, and coach hourly event staff on service standards, event procedures, professionalism, and safety expectations.
Handle guest concerns and operational challenges professionally and efficiently.
Ensure compliance with health, safety, sanitation, alcohol service, and company policies.
Conduct post-event walkthroughs to ensure proper cleanup, inventory return, and venue restoration.
Assist with inventory management and organization of event equipment, linens, display ware, and service items.
Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor while representing the company and UNC Athletics.
Support additional catering events and special projects as assigned.