Catering Operations Manager

The Catering Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and executing all daily catered events, including but not limited to Chancellor receptions, private high-level receptions, plated meals, buffet meals, meeting breaks, and premium athletic events. This position collaborates closely with an additional exempt supervisor to manage contracted wait staff, student staff, and Vanderbilt Campus Dining employees. The Catering Operations Manager is responsible for training, scheduling, and coordinating the catering team to ensure successful event execution.Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and execute catering events to meet established goals, objectives, and timelinesSchedule, coordinate, and manage professional wait staff, Vanderbilt student staff, and Vanderbilt Campus Dining employeesServe as the primary staffing coordinator for contracted waitstaff and Instawork professionalsPlan the timeline for event set up and breakdown, and communicate the plan to the catering teamCoordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely food deliveries and maintain food quality and safetyDevelop and communicate the logistical plan for special events to the catering team and contracted wait staffProvide guidance and direction to team members to support successful task completionWrite daily event schedules and task assignments to ensure smooth catering operationsManage quality control processes for customer service and employee satisfactionHire, train, and supervise contracted wait staff, Campus Dining employees, and student employeesPartner with the Event Planning team to coordinate labor and event detailsPartner with the Beverage Manager to maintain alcohol service excellence and legal complianceRecord event details and make improvements for future catering eventsStay informed of catering and food service trends, and recommend strategies to promote change and growthDemonstrate ability to set and enforce deadlines for task delegationContinuously evaluate operational needs against established goals and guidelinesManage group or interpersonal conflicts and escalate issues when appropriateMaintain catering inventory and make recommendations for repair and replacementEnsure a safe work environment by enforcing safety standards and performing auditsSupervisory Relationships: This position reports to the Assistant Director, Catering Operations. The Catering Operations Manager is responsible for supervising contracted wait staff, hourly non-exempt employees, and student employees. Education and Certifications:High school diploma or GED requiredBachelor's degree preferred, preferably in Hotel/Restaurant Management or a related fieldServSafe certification within 3 months of hire, with renewal every 5 years Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide continuous up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records.ABC alcohol service permit (or obtained within one week) is requiredExperience and Skills:5  years of relevant experience, with previous experience as an Operations Manager preferred3 years of off-premise catering experience, including loading, unloading, and driving delivery vehicles, preferredAbility to drive a catering van and medium-sized box truckProficiency in Microsoft Office programsEffective communication skills and ability to work with a diverse populationStrong time management, organizational, and multi-tasking skills with an eye for detailDemonstrated ability to deliver exceptional customer serviceAbility to manage people, maintain confidentiality, and be accountable for Vanderbilt assetsProactive, enthusiastic attitude, and excellent customer service skillsStrong supervisory and people management skillsPhysical Demands and Work Environment:Must enjoy a fast-paced working environment and be able to work within a team as well as independentlyMust be available to work a varied schedule, including nights and weekendsAbility to lift up to 50 lbs and frequently lift, push, pull, or carry up to 30 lbsAbility to walk or stand for extended periods, and bend, stretch, twist, and liftAbility to frequently lift/transport hot food items in hotboxes (200 lbs.) onto and off box trucks and to event locations This is a full-time exempt position. Expected weekly hours range from 40-50, with flexibility in workplace locations, days, and hours, including a willingness to work long, non-standard workdays.  #VUCLO PandoLogic. Keywords: Catering Manager, Location: Columbia, TN - 38401

Created: 2025-02-10