The Catering Events Manager directs catering operations at Syracuse University, including the restaurant and catering services at the Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center, and supports catered events in other University facilities. This role plans and coordinates events for faculty, staff, alumni, donors, trustees, student groups, and guests, ranging from small gatherings of 2 to large events of up to 500 people. The Manager leads, trains, and schedules a diverse team and partners closely with campus offices to deliver excellent service. The Manager also develops and upholds catering policies and procedures and ensures compliance with county, state, and union requirements.
Education and Experience
- Degree in Food Service Management, Hospitality Management or a related field, or three years of related experience in catering, food service, or event operations.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
- Supervisory experience preferred
Skills and Knowledge
- Experience with catering or event management software and point-of-sale systems like Catertrax.
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification needed (ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and leadership skills
- Ability to provide excellent customer service to a wide range of internal and external guests
- Ability to train, schedule, and supervise a team that includes staff, bargaining unit employees, and students
Responsibilities
- Direct catering operations. Direct the operations of the Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center restaurant and catering, and assist with catered events in other University facilities. Coordinate and plan multiple annual events for faculty, staff, alumni, donors, trustees, student groups, and guests, with event sizes ranging from 2 to 500 people.
- Lead and develop staff. Train, schedule, and monitor exempt, non-exempt, and bargaining unit staff, as well as student and temporary employees, on customer service and serving techniques. The team includes 1 exempt, 1 non-exempt, 5 bargaining unit, and 37 student and temporary staff members.
- Consult on menus and events. Serve as the menu, service, and event planning consultant for all catered events. Work closely with the Special Events Office, Alumni Office, and Trustees Office on special events.
- Set and enforce policy. Develop, monitor, and enforce University catering policies and procedures, and ensure compliance with county, state, and union policies.
- Resolve concerns. Respond to inquiries and complaints from students, staff, and faculty. Troubleshoot employee concerns and act as a liaison between staff and upper management.
Physical Requirements
Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.