Director, Catering & Event Design

Rich Products Corporation•Buffalo, NY

37d

About The Position

The Director of Catering and Event Design is a dynamic and multifaceted role that combines strategic leadership with hands-on event execution. This position is responsible for overseeing the catering and event design departments, managing venue and property operations, and driving sales and business development. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of creativity, leadership, and operational expertise, ensuring seamless execution of events while leading a team of sales managers, event coordinators, and porters.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Event Planning, Business Administration, a related field OR Equivalent Experience.
Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in event planning, catering, venue management, and sales, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
Proven track record of successful event execution and client satisfaction.
Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Proficiency in event management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Management:
Oversee and mentor a team of 3 Sales Managers, 3 Event Coordinators, and the Porter Team.
Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
Conduct regular team meetings and performance reviews.
Sales & Business Development:
Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve revenue goals.
Build and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, and partners.
Lead the sales team in generating new business and securing event contracts.
Lead all sales at largest venue in portfolio.
Event Planning & Design:
Manage the end-to-end planning and design of events, from initial concept through execution.
Collaborate with clients to understand their vision and provide creative solutions.
Oversee event design, including décor, layout, and thematic elements.
Create, design, & build new and innovative event designs including custom décor.
Continuously research and identify emerging trends to integrate into client events, enhancing the experience and maximizing profitability.
Catering Operations:
Oversee catering operations, ensuring high standards of service and quality.
Develop and refine catering menus in collaboration with executive chef & culinary teams.
Monitor and manage catering budgets and expenses.
Venue & Property Management:
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the venue, ensuring it meets all safety and regulatory standards.
Coordinate with maintenance and housekeeping teams to ensure the venue is in optimal condition.
Manage venue bookings, scheduling, and logistical arrangements.
Event Execution:
Take a hands-on approach to managing and executing events, ensuring flawless delivery.
Address and resolve any issues that arise during events promptly and professionally.
Supervise event setup and teardown, ensuring all details align with client expectations.
Reporting & Analysis:
Prepare regular reports on sales performance, event outcomes, and team metrics.
Analyze data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
Implement best practices and process improvements based on feedback and analysis.