Director of Catering & Convention Services

Le Méridien St. Louis Clayton • St Louis, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This role involves training, supervising, and working with all Catering associates to solicit and book Banquet and Catering functions, aiming for customer satisfaction and profitability. The position requires developing and maintaining client relationships, overseeing all phases of event preparation, recruiting and training staff, ensuring timely distribution of event details, implementing strategies to drive catering revenue, developing customized menu options, managing the catering budget, maintaining quality control over food preparation and service, and addressing challenges to ensure smooth operations and high-quality service.

Requirements

• Strong leadership and management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Organizational and planning skills
• Attention to detail and a passion for food and service
• Knowledge of food and beverage service standards
• Experience in event planning and management
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks
• Ability to grasp, lift and/or carry, or otherwise move goods weighing a maximum of 20 lbs. on an occasional basis.

Nice To Haves

• Culinary knowledge and experience
• Business and marketing skills

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, understanding their needs and expectations for events.
• Oversee all phases of event preparation, from menu development and logistics to execution.
• Recruit, train, and supervise catering and convention service staff, ensuring they adhere to service standards and best practices.
• Ensure timely distribution of event details in the form of BEOs, change logs or any other documents the hotel teams need to assure event execution.
• Implement strategies to drive catering revenue, expand market reach, and secure new business.
• Collaborate with chefs and clients to develop customized menu options, considering dietary restrictions and preferences.
• Manage and control the catering budget, ensuring profitability.
• Maintain quality control over food preparation, presentation, and service, ensuring adherence to sanitation and safety policies.
• Address issues and challenges as they arise, ensuring smooth operation and high-quality service.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed