Catering & Special Events Manager | Central Park Boathouse

ASM Global•New York, NY

10d•$75,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Catering & Special Events Manager for Aspire is an experienced hospitality professional with a passion for exceptional guest experiences, food & beverage, and event / banquet execution. This role is responsible for managing all aspects of special events from client planning through on-site execution while maintaining the highest standards of service, organization, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver, strong communicator, and collaborative leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and understands that client satisfaction is the foundation of successful events. This individual has a proven record of successfully executed intimate gatherings to large-scale events. The Central Park Boathouse is a historic building started over 150 years ago as an area to explore and rent rowboats, and over the years it has evolved into a landmark restaurant. This iconic space will continue to hold catered events, restaurant services and rowboat rentals to its millions of visitors each year.

Requirements

Able to demonstrate flexibility and quickly adapt to changes
Ability to be self-motivated and work independently and work well as a team player.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Bachelor’s Degree, Hospitality Management degree preferred
3-6 years of management experience in Catering, Banquets, Events or Hospitality
Excellent communication, leadership, delegation and organizational skills
Meticulous organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
Highly proficient in computer applications with preferred experience in platforms such as Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Photoshop, Tripleseat, Social Tables or Prismm, Canva, Figma, and scheduling software/applications
Proven ability to manage multiple events and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with P&L reporting and financial management practices
Consistent commitment to exceeding guest expectations
Extensive knowledge of upscale food and beverage preparation and ingredients, banquet service standards, client / guest relations, and professional etiquette
Knowledge of fine dining table settings and service, synchronized services, service equipment and printed menu design
Proven experience managing high-end catering, hospitality, or special events with corporate and social clientele
General knowledge of competitive markets
Willingness to work extended hours and flexible shifts including mornings, nights, weekends and holidays
Practice safe work habits, follow all safety policies and procedures and regulations, complete company-wide safety training and additional job specific safety training

Nice To Haves

Hospitality Management degree preferred
preferred experience in platforms such as Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Photoshop, Tripleseat, Social Tables or Prismm, Canva, Figma, and scheduling software/applications

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the event planning and execution process
Collaborate closely with the Event Sales team to ensure accurate and successful event execution
Manage all event logistics including timelines, floorplans, menus, staffing, rentals, and vendor coordination
Lead food & beverage planning with clients including menu development, tastings, and service style coordination
Attend weekly event and hospitality leadership meetings
Partner with internal departments including Culinary, Operations, Engineering, IT, Security, Cleaning, and Loading Dock teams to ensure seamless execution
Oversee event load-in, event operations, and load-out, including leading pre-event meetings
Manage ordering and inventory of event equipment, smallwares, disposables, food and beverages
Coordinate preferred vendors and ensure all required insurance and compliance documentation is collected
Deliver exceptional guest experiences by maintaining high service standards and anticipating client needs
Support financial reporting including event P&Ls, projected sales, and post-event recaps
Assist with interviewing, onboarding, training, and retention of catering team members
Develop and implement SOPs to improve operational efficiency and service consistency
Partner with Operations and Engineering teams to maintain event spaces and venue standards
Stay current on hospitality and event trends to support innovative event experiences, service styles, and menu offerings
Ensure adherence to health, safety, and cleanliness standards
Perform additional duties as assigned by management
Supervise and direct catering event staff to ensure successful execution of all events
Conduct performance coaching, provide ongoing feedback, and support professional development initiatives for team members
Create and manage staffing schedules and event assignments to ensure appropriate coverage and operational efficiency
Enforce company policies, service standards, safety procedures, and performance expectations while addressing employee relations issues as needed
Lead pre-event briefings and post-event reviews, providing direction, accountability, and continuous improvement opportunities for the event team
Practice safe work habits and complete company and venue safety and general compliance training
Maintain a pleasant and collaborative attitude towards customers, co-workers, and management.
Adheres to the Legends Global and venue company policies
Complete other duties as assigned by management