DIR, CATERING SR - UNIVERITY OF FLORIDA

Location: UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - GAINESVILLE, FL

Salary: $90,000 - $100,000

Other Forms of Compensation: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, PTO

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you.

Job Summary

Filling every occasion with great food and service! We are currently seeking a Senior Catering Director for our high-volume and premiere catering department at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL . Our Senior Catering Director will be responsible for developing and driving catering solutions to meet our customer needs, while working closely with the Executive Chef on menu development. Events encompass a diverse spectrum, spanning from coffee services to exclusive VIP dining occasions, hosted both on-campus and off-campus.

** $5,000 SIGN ON BONUS - Payable after 90 successful days in position. **

Why the University of Florida?
Step into a campus that’s as energetic as it is beautiful:

Home of the Florida Gators, with one of the most recognized athletic programs in the country
A top-ranked public university with 50,000+ students, offering a vibrant, diverse campus environment
Known for excellence in research, innovation, and national impact
️ A dynamic campus dining scene—perfect for pushing culinary creativity and scale

Why Gainesville, FL?
Gainesville offers the perfect balance of culture, nature, and energy:

Located in North Central Florida, with easy access to both the Gulf Coast and Atlantic beaches
Surrounded by springs, lakes, and nature preserves—including nearby Paynes Prairie and crystal-clear freshwater springs
A lively arts and music scene, with festivals and local culture year-round
A laid-back college-town feel combined with a growing food scene
Affordable living with a strong sense of community and Southern charm

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and oversee both internal and external catering events to ensure seamless execution and outstanding customer happiness.
• Develop and maintain the catering marketing plan, offering clients a comprehensive event planning service and detailed menu development that aligns with their needs and preferences.
• Lead the hiring, training, and scheduling of catering staff, actively contributing to the development of existing catering staff in service techniques, menu presentation, policies, and procedures.
• Ensure the successful operations of catering functions, including meticulous control over labor and food costs, and be responsible for preparation, transportation, setup, operation, and cleanup of all events.
• Collaborate with the Management and Chartwells Marketing teams to implement effective strategies sought at building catering revenue and growing market reach.
• Foster strong client relationships to align our programs with their objectives, driving happiness and retention.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of dining service operations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's degree preferred.
• Minimum of five years of experience in catering leadership including two years in management.
• Proven experience in booking, selecting, and costing menu items, pricing contracts, and sourcing temporary help and equipment.
• Strong ability to supervise food preparation, service, and cleanup, ensuring high-quality standards are consistently met.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Must be experienced with computers.
• ServSafe® Certified.

Embark on a dynamic career journey with us, where innovation and creativity thrive, and your contributions make a tangible impact on campus life! Join our team and be part of shaping exceptional dining experiences at the University of Florida!

Apply to Chartwells Higher Education today!

Chartwells Higher Education is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

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. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates at Chartwells Higher Ed 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

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details:

Req ID: 1558672

Chartwells HE

SHARON MCNEELEY

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