Catering Manager - Hampton University

Thompson Hospitality Corporation • Hampton, VA

4d

About The Position

Are you a Master of Hospitality with a passion for culinary excellence and seamless event execution? We’re looking for a Catering Manager at Hampton University who’s ready to take campus events to the next level—through exceptional food, flawless coordination, and unforgettable experiences.
In this dynamic role, you’ll be the go-to expert for campus catering services, overseeing everything from intimate luncheons to high-profile campus events. You’ll collaborate with clients, design custom menus, lead a talented catering team, and ensure every detail is executed to perfection. With your creativity, organizational skills, and commitment to service, you’ll not only feed the campus—you’ll leave a lasting impression.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Culinary Arts, or a related field.
• Proven experience in catering management, with a successful track record of executing diverse events.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with attention to detail and a focus on customer satisfaction.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with clients, staff, and vendors.
• Knowledge of industry trends, culinary innovations, and the ability to adapt catering services accordingly.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods (up to 8–10 hours per day), including during event setup, service, and breakdown.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 40 pounds (e.g., food trays, beverage containers, catering equipment).
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and kneeling to assist with event setups and maintain service flow.
• Ability to navigate various campus locations, including stairs, outdoor areas, and multi-building venues.
• Manual dexterity to operate kitchen tools, catering equipment, and digital devices (e.g., POS systems, tablets).
• Must be able to taste and smell food and beverages for quality assurance.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures (e.g., kitchens, outdoor events, transport vehicles).
• Visual and auditory acuity to coordinate with staff, monitor food presentation, and respond to client needs.
• May require valid driver’s license to operate catering vehicles or transport supplies (depending on campus layout).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive catering strategies aligning with college goals and customer expectations.
• Oversee all aspects of catering operations, including menu planning, event coordination, and logistics.
• Collaborate with clients to understand and personalize catering needs, offering creative solutions.
• Manage catering budgets, pricing, and profitability to meet financial targets.
• Supervise catering staff, provide leadership, training, and foster a culture of excellence.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers and vendors to secure high-quality ingredients and services.
• Requires evenings and weekends as business needs dictate.

Benefits

• Health/Dental/Vision
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k), matched up to 4%
• Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Pet Insurance
• Discounts: Hotels, Travel, Tickets, Restaurants
• Employees and their relatives are eligible for a discounted meal plan at any of our HBCU client locations while they are attending school.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees