Catering Operations Manager

Restaurant Associates Position Title: Catering Operations Manager Salary: $85,000 - $100,000/yr Other Forms of Compensation: Benefits Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice Awards - Best Places to Work, This is R/A ! Job Summary The Catering Operations Manager holds duties related to successful execution and coordination of catering events for premier corporate dining. The position, based in Chicago, IL entails a need for excellent attention to detail and communication skills to ensure seamless execution of all catering dining services while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, service, presentation, cleanliness, and food quality. Key Responsibilities Lead and oversee all front-of-house and back-of-house operations to ensure seamless execution of daily dining services. Maintain the highest standards of hospitality, service, presentation, cleanliness, and food quality. Ensure compliance with all company, client, health, safety, and sanitation standards. Drive operational excellence through continuous process improvement and best practices. Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing hospitality and culinary team. Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, inclusivity, and service excellence. Conduct performance evaluations, coaching sessions, and succession planning initiatives. Promote professional growth through ongoing training and leadership development programs. Partner with culinary leadership to deliver innovative, seasonal, and client-focused dining experiences. Support menu development, presentation standards, and culinary initiatives that reflect current dining trends. Ensure consistent execution of premium food offerings while maintaining quality and cost controls. Collaborate on wellness, sustainability, and specialty dining programs. Cultivate exceptional client and guest relationships through proactive engagement and personalized service. Oversee the planning and execution of high-profile meetings, executive functions, VIP events, and special programs. Ensure flawless event delivery through detailed planning, coordination, and hospitality leadership. Partner with clients and stakeholders to design customized experiences that exceed expectations. Preferred Qualifications A.S. or equivalent experience General Hospitality knowledge and interest in sustainability and sustainable food practices At least two years of catering management experience within the hospitality industry Ability to interact with a diverse and high-volume customer base in a friendly and efficient manner. Ability to operate a web-based ordering system, process customer requests, changes to orders, menu updates, and client profiles. Proficient with word processing and spreadsheet applications. Ability to write professional and efficient emails to clients and customers. Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USA Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Associates At Restaurant Associates Are Offered Many Fantastic Benefits. Medical Dental Vision Life Insurance/ AD Disability Insurance Retirement Plan Paid Time Off Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state) Associate Shopping Program Health and Wellness Programs Discount Marketplace Identity Theft Protection Pet Insurance Commuter Benefits Employee Assistance Program Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Paid Parental Leave Personal Leave #J-18808-Ljbffr Restaurant Associates