Catering & Special Events Manager One World Observatory

Legends Global•New York, NY

13h•Onsite

About The Position

The Catering & Special Events Manager for Aspire is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing catered events while delivering exceptional guest experiences through outstanding hospitality and food & beverage service. This role manages all aspects of special events from initial client planning through post-event follow-up while maintaining the highest standards of service, organization, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate is an organized, client-focused hospitality leader who excels in fast-paced environments, builds strong cross-functional relationships, and consistently delivers exceptional event experiences. This individual has a proven track record of executing events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate and social functions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or a related field preferred.
Three (3) to six (6) years of progressive management experience in catering, banquets, special events, or hospitality.
Proven experience managing upscale catering, hospitality, or special events serving both corporate and social clientele.
Experience with financial reporting, budgeting, and event P&L management.
Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, delegation, and organizational skills.
Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Strong client relationship management and problem-solving abilities.
Extensive knowledge of upscale food and beverage service, banquet operations, client relations, and professional etiquette.
Knowledge of fine dining service standards, synchronized service, table settings, service equipment, and menu presentation.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
General knowledge of hospitality market trends and competitive practices.
Demonstrated commitment to delivering exceptional guest service.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as business demands require.
Practice safe work habits; comply with all company safety policies, procedures, regulations, and required training.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Tripleseat, Social Tables/Prism, Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Figma, and scheduling platforms preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the planning and execution process.
Partner closely with the Event Sales team to ensure a seamless transition from sales to event execution.
Manage all event logistics, including timelines, floor plans, menus, staffing, rentals, vendor coordination, and event documentation.
Lead client consultations regarding food & beverage selections, menu development, tastings, and service style.
Coordinate preferred vendors and ensure all required insurance certificates and compliance documentation are received.
Deliver exceptional guest experiences by anticipating client needs and resolving concerns professionally.
Oversee all event operations, including load-in, pre-event meetings, event execution, and load-out.
Partner with Culinary, Operations, Engineering, IT, Security, Cleaning, and Loading Dock teams to ensure seamless event execution.
Attend weekly event and hospitality leadership meetings.
Manage the ordering and inventory of event equipment, smallwares, disposables, food, and beverages.
Partner with Operations and Engineering to maintain event spaces and venue presentation standards.
Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve operational efficiency and service consistency.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards.
Support financial performance by assisting with event P&Ls, projected sales reporting, and post-event recaps.
Monitor event expenses to support budget objectives and cost controls.
Stay current on hospitality and event industry trends to introduce innovative service styles, menu concepts, and guest experiences.
Assist with interviewing, onboarding, training, coaching, and retaining catering team members.
Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.
Supervise catering event staff to ensure the successful execution of all assigned events.
Create staffing schedules and event assignments to ensure appropriate coverage and operational efficiency.
Lead pre-event briefings and post-event debriefs to communicate expectations and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Provide coaching, performance feedback, training, and professional development to team members.
Enforce company policies, service standards, safety procedures, and performance expectations while addressing employee relations matters in partnership with Human Resources, as appropriate.