CATERING MANAGER - Iona University - New Rochelle, NY

Catering Manager

Iona University is seeking an energetic, detail-oriented, and service-driven Catering Manager to lead and elevate our on-campus catering operations. This is an exciting opportunity for a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced, event-focused environment and is passionate about delivering memorable dining experiences.

As Catering Manager, you will oversee all aspects of catering operationsfrom menu collaboration and event execution to staff training and client relationswhile playing a key role in shaping exceptional experiences for the Iona University community and its guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise all catering events, ensuring flawless execution from set-up through breakdown
• Oversee event logistics, quality control, sanitation, and facility coordination
• Partner with the Chef to design creative, high-quality menus that reflect current food and catering trends
• Train, coach, and mentor catering associates on service techniques, presentation standards, and customer service excellence
• Direct temporary and event-specific staff alongside regular team members
• Track and manage labor and food costs for each event, ensuring financial accountability
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, maintaining strong and professional relationships
• Ensure exceptional service delivery during events, addressing client needs promptly and professionally
• Support all foodservice-related activities and perform additional duties as needed

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of food service experience, including at least 1 year in a management role
• Required experience in catering operations
• Background in restaurants, hotels, corporate dining, education, healthcare, military, or comparable foodservice environments
• Strong knowledge of food and catering trends with an emphasis on quality, sanitation, production, cost control, and presentation
• Solid financial acumen, including budgeting and cost tracking
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and internet-based tools
• ServSafe Certification required
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Chartwells Higher Education 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.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

• 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: 1522238

Chartwells HE

KRISTINA MCCARTHY