Temp Banquet Captain, Catering Services

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Temp Banquet Captain, Catering Services role focuses on the planning, coordination, and execution of catering events. This position involves leading and developing event staff, managing operational logistics and resources, and ensuring safety, compliance, and quality assurance throughout all catering activities. The captain will collaborate with Catering Management to ensure events meet established goals and service standards, while also supporting broader Campus Dining operations.

Requirements

Experience in event planning, coordination, and execution.
Ability to lead, train, coach, and supervise staff.
Proficiency in managing operational logistics and resources.
Knowledge of safety and sanitation requirements in food service.
Experience operating department vehicles, including box trucks, vans, and golf carts.
Ability to manage catering inventory.
Strong communication and conflict resolution skills.
Sound judgment in task delegation and prioritization.

Nice To Haves

Experience with hourly union employees.
Familiarity with Campus Dining operations.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and execute catering events in accordance with established goals, timelines, and service standards.
Collaborate with Catering Management to develop logistical plans, event timelines, staffing assignments, and operational requirements.
Prepare daily event pull sheets and task assignments to ensure seamless event execution.
Oversee event setup, service, breakdown, and cleanup activities, ensuring events are completed efficiently and professionally.
Maintain accurate event documentation and evaluate outcomes to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Lead, train, coach, and supervise contracted wait staff, student employees, and hourly union employees.
Assign work, communicate expectations, and monitor performance to ensure compliance with departmental standards and event requirements.
Foster a positive work environment through effective communication, conflict resolution, and employee engagement.
Support employee development through ongoing training and continuous improvement initiatives.
Demonstrate sound judgment in task delegation, prioritization, and escalation of operational or personnel concerns.
Coordinate food, equipment, and supply deliveries to event locations while ensuring quality, safety, and timeliness.
Operate department vehicles, including box trucks, vans, and golf carts, in a safe and responsible manner.
Manage catering inventory, including equipment, linens, uniforms, décor, alcohol, and vehicles, and recommend repairs or replacements as needed.
Assist with departmental deliveries and special event logistics to support Campus Dining operations.
Continuously assess operational needs and recommend strategies to improve efficiency, service quality, and program growth.
Maintain a safe work environment by enforcing safety standards, conducting safety audits, and ensuring compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
Monitor customer service, food quality, event presentation, and employee performance to maintain high operational standards.
Ensure food deliveries, handling, and service practices meet all applicable safety and sanitation requirements.
Promote accountability and consistency through regular review of operational processes, event outcomes, and service expectations.