Catering/Special Events Manager | OWC

Catering / Special Events Manager – OWCLocation: New York, NYThe Catering & Special Events Manager for Well& by Durst is an experienced hospitality professional with a passion for exceptional guest experiences, food & beverage, and event / banquet execution. This role is responsible for managing all aspects of special events from client planning through on-site execution while maintaining the highest standards of service, organization, and operational excellence.The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver, strong communicator, and collaborative leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and understands that client satisfaction is the foundation of successful events. This individual has a proven record of successfully executed intimate gatherings to large-scale events.One World Observatory, positioned atop One World Trade Center, offers 360-degree views of the New York skyline from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors are invited start their journey to the top in the SkyPod™ Elevators that depict the rise of NYC in just 47 seconds, experience the sights and sounds of the city in the See Forever™ Theater or discover something new from the Observatory's team of tour guides at City Pulse. The space also features ONE Dine, a view restaurant and bar, offering elevated American cuisine and a selection of beers, wines, and specialty cocktails. The private event space, ASPIRE at One World Observatory, offers 9,000 square feet of private event space with unparalleled views for up to 450 guests.Key Responsibilities & Outcomes:Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the event planning and execution processCollaborate closely with the Event Sales team to ensure accurate and successful event executionManage all event logistics including timelines, floorplans, menus, staffing, rentals, and vendor coordinationLead food & beverage planning with clients including menu development, tastings, and service style coordinationAttend weekly event and hospitality leadership meetingsPartner with internal departments including Culinary, Operations, Engineering, IT, Security, Cleaning, and Loading Dock teams to ensure seamless executionOversee event load-in, event operations, and load-out, including leading pre-event meetingsManage ordering and inventory of event equipment, smallwares, disposables, food and beveragesCoordinate preferred vendors and ensure all required insurance and compliance documentation is collectedDeliver exceptional guest experiences by maintaining high service standards and anticipating client needsSupport financial reporting including event P&Ls, projected sales, and post-event recapsAssist with interviewing, onboarding, training, and retention of catering team members.Develop and implement SOPs to improve operational efficiency and service consistencyPartner with Operations and Engineering teams to maintain event spaces and venue standardsStay current on hospitality and event trends to support innovative event experiences, service styles, and menu offeringsEnsure adherence to health, safety, and cleanliness standardsPerform additional duties as assigned by leadershipQualifications & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or a related field preferred.Three (3) to six (6) years of progressive management experience in catering, banquets, special events, or hospitality.Proven ability to manage multiple events and priorities in a fast-paced environmentExperience with financial reporting, budgeting, and event P&L management.Excellent communication, leadership, delegation and organizational skills.Meticulous organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.Highly proficient in computer applications with preferred experience in platforms such as Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Photoshop, Tripleseat, Social Tables or Prism, Canva, Figma, and scheduling software/applications.Familiarity with P&L reporting and financial management practices.Consistent commitment to exceeding guest expectations.Extensive knowledge of upscale food and beverage preparation and ingredients, banquet service standards, client / guest relations, and professional etiquette.Knowledge of fine dining table settings and service, synchronized services, service equipment and printed menu design.Proven experience managing high-end catering, hospitality, or special events with corporate and social clientele.General knowledge of competitive markets.Willingness to work extended hours and flexible shifts including mornings, nights, weekends and holidays.Practice safe work habits, follow all safety policies and procedures and regulations, complete company-wide safety training and additional job specific safety training.Leadership Attributes:Supervise and direct catering event staff to ensure successful execution of all eventsConduct performance coaching, provide ongoing feedback, and support professional development initiatives for team members.Create and manage staffing schedules and event assignments to ensure appropriate coverage and operational efficiency.Enforce company policies, service standards, safety procedures, and performance expectations while addressing employee relations issues as needed.Lead pre-event briefings and post-event reviews, providing direction, accountability, and continuous improvement opportunities for the event team.Work Environment & Travel:Location: On-site (One World Observatory, NYC)Compensation: Annual salary of $65k - $70k annually, and a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid vacation, and 401(k).