Catering Manager 3

Sodexo•Orono, ME

13d

About The Position

Fast-Paced. Never Boring.You thrive on the variety that each day brings! Sodexo’s Campus Segment is seeking a Senior Catering Manager for the University of Maine (UMaine) in Orono, ME — the flagship and Showcase account for the entire University of Maine System. With 12,000 students and growing, UMaine hosts a significant number of high-level clients, dignitaries, and VIP events throughout the year. It is one of the largest Sodexo campuses in New England and offers expansive Dining, Retail, Catering, and Concessions services to over 3,200 residential students and the greater Orono community. In this key leadership role, you will oversee a high-profile, VIP-focused catering program with tremendous visibility and growth opportunity. You’ll lead menu development, client engagement, operational excellence, and a high-performing team to deliver memorable experiences across campus.

Requirements

Proven experience in catering management, event operations, or hospitality leadership.
Strong client-facing and relationship-building abilities, especially with VIP stakeholders.
Expertise in menu planning, event execution, and service presentation.
Experience managing budgets, inventory, food & labor costs, and procurement.
Excellent communication, organization, and team leadership skills.
A customer- and client-centered mindset with a drive to exceed expectations.
Knowledge of safety, sanitation, and HAACP compliance standards.
The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with significant visibility and growth potential.
Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experienceMinimum Management Experience - 2 years Minimum Functional Experience – 1 year work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage all Catering & Event Operations, including VIP and high-profile functions.
Plan creative, customized menus aligned with client expectations and campus culture.
Build strong, trust-based relationships with campus partners and high-level clients.
Ensure seamless event execution through excellent presentation skills and hands-on leadership.
Oversee inventory management, purchasing, food & labor costing, and scheduling.
Maintain rigorous safety, sanitation, and HAACP compliance standards.
Train, coach, and develop catering teams to ensure exceptional service and execution.
Drive catering sales growth, track performance metrics, and support expansion opportunities.
Respond quickly and resourcefully to client and customer needs.