Catering Events Coordinator

Reports to: Director of Social Ventures
Location: New York, NY (with remote coordination for DMV operations)
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

About Emma’s Torch

Emma’s Torch is a non-profit social enterprise that empowers refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking through culinary training, job placement support, and professional development. Through our paid, full-time culinary apprenticeship programs, students gain hands-on experience while working in our social venture businesses, including our cafes, catering operations, and CPG production.

We believe in celebrating the talent, resilience, and potential of our students and honoring our namesake, Emma Lazarus, whose words on the Statue of Liberty continue to inspire our mission.

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Position Overview

The Catering Events Coordinator manages the operational execution of catering events across Emma’s Torch’s New York operations, with remote coordination support for DMV events. This role owns event logistics after booking, including staffing, inventory planning, ordering, vendor coordination, on-site execution, and communications with the culinary team.

Working closely with the Catering Sales Manager and culinary team, the Catering Events Coordinator receives confirmed event details and ensures all operational, inventory, and service components are prepared and executed to deliver high-quality, mission-aligned catering experiences.

Key Responsibilities1. Catering Event Logistics, Inventory & Execution (50%)

• Own execution of catering events once handed off from the Catering Sales Manager.
• Manage event logistics including, but not limited to, staffing, rentals, production timelines, delivery, setup, service, breakdown, and site visits.
• Plan event inventory needs and order all non-food items (rentals, beverages & ice if applicable, disposables, supplies).
• Coordinate with external vendors and the client (rentals, beverage, specialty suppliers) to confirm orders, deliveries, and pickups.
• Create and maintain run-of-shows, pack lists, delivery schedules, and staffing plans.
• Serve as on-site lead, directing staff and ensuring smooth service and adherence to hospitality standards.

2. Internal Communication, Inventory & Operational Systems (30%)

• Maintain the catering “day-of” calendar to ensure accurate scheduling and prep visibility.
• Own NY catering inventory systems, including counts, par levels, storage organization, and replenishment.
• Track catering equipment and supplies to ensure accurate packing, returns, and restocking.
• Develop and maintain SOPs for catering workflows, inventory management, and vendor coordination.
• Partner with the Catering Sales Manager and culinary team to ensure event details are accurate and operationally aligned.
• Support DMV catering operations with remote coordination, inventory guidance, and shared execution standards.
• Post Event Report to the Catering Sales Manager.

3. Client Experience & Mission-Aligned Service (20%)

• Act as primary client contact post-booking for confirmations and day-of logistics.
• Ensure professional, warm service aligned with Emma’s Torch’s mission and hospitality values.
• Anticipate service, setup, and flow needs to deliver polished event experiences.
• Train staff on service standards and event expectations.
• Gather and share client feedback to support continuous improvement.
• Represent Emma’s Torch on-site with clarity, care, and operational excellence.

This job description is intended to convey essential information about the scope and requirements of the position. It may be updated to reflect organizational needs.Requirements & Qualifications

• 2–4 years of experience in event coordination, catering operations, or hospitality management.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills; able to collaborate across multiple teams.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and adapting to changing event needs.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and remain on your feet for extended periods during event execution.
• Availability for early mornings, weekends, and evenings.
• Passion for hospitality and commitment to Emma’s Torch’s mission of empowerment.

What We Offer

• A collaborative, mission-driven work environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to a respected and impactful culinary nonprofit.
• Supportive team culture centered around dignity, empowerment, and inclusion.
• Access to professional development and training opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Emma’s Torch is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented communities—including refugees, immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities—to apply.