Manager, Catering Operations

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Assistant General Manager / General Manager, the Manager will provide full oversight to ensure all events are delivered in accordance with the department's standards for quality and consistency. The Manager is expected to help create a pleasant environment and experience for guests. The Manager will provide on and off-site supervision for all supported events and make recommendations for improving services, events policies, and procedures.

Responsibilities

Event Support - 30%

• Oversees event setup by reviewing menus, coordinating timing with culinary staff, and ensuring successful execution.
• Arranges temporary staff, room assignments, decor, and enhancements for events.
• Trains and directs front-of-house staff to maintain UEM's service standards.
• Prepares and adjusts work schedules to meet business demands, monitoring staff appearance and professionalism. Communicates daily activities to ensure seamless transitions and client satisfaction.
• Ensures compliance with Federal, State, Local, and Columbia University sanitation and OSHA regulations.
• Supports the General Manager / Assistant General Manager with event logistics, including coordination of staff, equipment, and transportation.
• Manages event delivery for high-quality execution, reviewing event orders to determine staffing, setups, and decor needs.
• Serves as primary liaison during events in the absence of the Assistant General Manager, handling issues and event closure.
• Maintains housekeeping and equipment condition of event spaces. Recommends and implements operational improvements for efficiency and cost savings.
• Plans and organizes materials and support needed for smooth event execution.

Administrative Support - 25%

• Supports the sales team in soliciting University and external events, collaborating to achieve sales goals and upselling menus and services.
• Manages event staff scheduling and payroll.
• Partners with the General Manager / Assistant General Manager to assess customer feedback and enhance services.
• Prepares menu cards, signage, and printed materials for events.
• Assists with onboarding and orientation of new staff.
• Conducts regular walkthroughs to identify maintenance needs, report issues, and ensure timely resolution.

Customer Service - 20%

• Resolves client concerns diplomatically and follows up on service issues, communicating with the Assistant General Manager.
• Collaborates on policies for UEM-managed spaces, including food service, AV, and outdoor events.
• Delivers superior service to exceed customer expectations.
• Maintains effective communication with all stakeholders to ensure productive relationships.
• Engages respectfully with diverse clientele, departments, and student organizations to maintain a customer-friendly environment.
• Performs other related duties and assists with special projects as assigned.

Training & Development - 20%

• Partners with HR to enhance staff performance through training, clear objectives, and professional development.
• Reviews guest satisfaction results and trains employees to meet service standards.
• Observes performance and provides constructive feedback to maintain high service quality.
• Assists with corrective action plans and fosters a feedback-rich, collaborative work culture.
• Proactively identifies opportunities to improve service and team performance.

Marketing - 5%

• Supports the sales team with event solicitations and upselling of services.
• Assists the Assistant / General Manager with marketing initiatives.
• Represents University Event Management at bridal shows and promotional events.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree and / or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3 years related experience in the hospitality field or equivalent experience preferred.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain professionalism in all situations.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends to support events year-round.
• Valid driver's license.
• Proficiency in MS Word and Excel.
• Excellent customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Kronos Payroll System.
• Experience with catering / event management systems (e.g., EMS).
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.