Catering Manager

Compass Group•New York, NY

4d•$75,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The Catering Manager oversees daily catering operations and leads a high-performing team to ensure successful meetings, special events, and catered functions. This role manages event logistics, develops associates, builds client relationships, and maintains high standards of food quality and service. The manager partners with culinary leadership on menus and food presentation, coordinates staffing and operational needs, monitors costs and budgets, and works with culinary and operations teams to deliver seamless events. The position also ensures compliance with food safety, sanitation, and company operating standards while identifying ways to improve efficiency, service quality, and catering performance.

Requirements

At least two years of food service experience, including at least one year in a management or supervisory role.
Catering experience.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Knowledge of catering operations, event logistics, food production, sanitation, and cost controls.
Experience with budgeting, labor management, and financial reporting.
Ability to manage multiple events and priorities while maintaining exceptional customer service.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and general computer applications.
ServSafe Certification required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in corporate dining, restaurants, hotels, higher education, healthcare, or other hospitality environments.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of catering events, ensuring exceptional service and guest satisfaction.
Oversee event setup, service, breakdown, and daily catering operations.
Supervise, train, coach, and develop catering associates and temporary staff.
Partner with culinary leadership to develop menus and ensure outstanding food quality and presentation.
Coordinate event logistics, staffing, scheduling, and operational needs.
Monitor labor, food costs, and event expenses while meeting budget and financial goals.
Build and maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication and exceptional customer service.
Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and company operating standards.
Collaborate with culinary and operations teams to ensure seamless event execution.
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, service quality, and overall catering performance.