Director, Catering & Special Events

MILKEN INSTITUTE•Washington, DC

11h•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Senior Director of Catering and Special Events, this leader will be responsible for managing the execution of events booked at the Milken Center. This role bridges the gap between the sales and operations teams and third-party vendors, ensuring clients receive excellent service from contract to event completion. You will work closely with clients to understand their event requirements and coordinate all aspects to deliver a successful and profitable experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience.
5+ years of experience in hospitality, catering, banquets and conference services.
Strong client service orientation with excellent attention to detail.
Proven ability to manage multiple events in a fast-paced environment.
Collaborative team player with a proactive, solution-driven approach and entrepreneurial mindset.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) and industry-standard event planning software like Delphi, Tripleseats,…

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned group and conference clients from post-sale through successful event execution.
Manage all aspects of event planning, including room setup, audiovisual needs, catering, registration, food & beverage requirements, and special requests.
Coordinate closely with internal departments to ensure seamless event delivery and exceptional guest experiences.
Prepare and distribute comprehensive documentation, including Event Resumes, Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), and related materials.
Lead pre-event planning meetings and post-event debriefs with clients and key staff.
Ensure billing accuracy, assist in the preparation of final invoices, and manage timely follow-up.
Maintain up-to-date records in relevant systems such as Delphi, Tripleseats, or similar event and property management platforms.
Support business development efforts by assisting with client site inspections, proposals, and event walkthroughs as needed.
Duties as assigned.