SENIOR CATERING DIRECTOR - UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY - LEXINGTON, KY

Compass Group•Lexington, KY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Compass Group is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), launching July 1, 2026—and we’re looking for talented individuals to help bring this innovative, integrated services model to life. This long-term collaboration reflects a bold vision to align and strengthen services across UK’s campus, healthcare system, and athletics programs. By bringing together foodservice, hospitality, facilities management, and healthcare support, we are building a more connected and dynamic environment that enhances the experience for students, staff, patients, and the broader community. If you’re passionate about innovation, service excellence, and being part of something bigger, we invite you to explore career opportunities with Compass at the University of Kentucky. Our Senior Catering Director will be responsible for developing and driving catering solutions to meet our customer needs, while working closely with the Executive Chef on menu development. Events encompass a diverse spectrum, spanning from coffee services to exclusive VIP dining occasions, hosted both on-campus and off-campus.

Requirements

Minimum of five years of experience in catering leadership including two years in management.
Proven experience in booking, selecting, and costing menu items, pricing contracts, and sourcing temporary help and equipment.
Strong ability to supervise food preparation, service, and cleanup, ensuring high-quality standards are consistently met.
Must be experienced with computers.
ServSafe® Certified.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree preferred.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and oversee both internal and external catering events to ensure seamless execution and outstanding customer happiness.
Develop and maintain the catering marketing plan, offering clients a comprehensive event planning service and detailed menu development that aligns with their needs and preferences.
Lead the hiring, training, and scheduling of catering staff, actively contributing to the development of existing catering staff in service techniques, menu presentation, policies, and procedures.
Ensure the successful operations of catering functions, including meticulous control over labor and food costs, and be responsible for preparation, transportation, setup, operation, and cleanup of all events.
Collaborate with the Management and Chartwells Marketing teams to implement effective strategies sought at building catering revenue and growing market reach.
Foster strong client relationships to align our programs with their objectives, driving happiness and retention.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of dining service operations.