Catering Manager | Catering & Event Operations | Bethlehem, PA

Job Description

Job Description

Our client is seeking an experienced Catering Manager to lead catering, conference center, and event operations within a dynamic higher education environment. This position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of event execution, client satisfaction, staff leadership, operational excellence, and food safety compliance.

The ideal candidate will possess strong catering and hospitality management experience, demonstrate effective leadership skills, and have a proven ability to coordinate complex events while maintaining exceptional service standards.

Onsite | No Visa Sponsorship | No Relocation Assistance

Please Note: Candidates residing within a reasonable 30-45 minute commute are strongly preferred

Responsibilities:

Catering & Event Operations

• Manage and oversee catering events from planning through execution.
• Coordinate event logistics, equipment, transportation, deliveries, and staffing requirements.
• Ensure successful execution of conferences, special events, concessions, and campus functions.
• Serve as the primary point of contact during events to address operational and guest-related concerns.

Leadership & Staff Development

• Foster a positive, service-focused team environment.
• Recruit, train, coach, and develop supervisors and frontline employees.
• Ensure staff adhere to operational, safety, and customer service standards.
• Conduct performance management activities and support employee engagement initiatives.

Client & Business Management

• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop customized event solutions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external clients.
• Utilize operational data to support decision-making and improve performance.
• Support menu planning, product selection, and event costing to achieve financial goals.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Conduct routine inspections of catering, conference, and event spaces.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and operational standards.
• Oversee equipment maintenance, inventory organization, and safety protocols.
• Monitor HACCP procedures and maintain adherence to applicable regulatory guidelines.

Qualifications (Must-Haves)

• Minimum of 3 years of management experience.
• Strong client service and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Experience managing employees, supervisors, or operational teams.
• Experience coordinating multiple events and operational priorities simultaneously.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in catering, hospitality, food service, conference services, events, or a related field.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with menu development and event costing.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Background in concessions management or multi-venue event operations.
• Experience in higher education dining, conference centers, convention venues, hotels, or large-scale catering operations.

Benefits & Perks:

• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Wellness Program
• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition Assistance Programs
• Career development and growth opportunities