Banquet Events Lead (Contract)

Vanderbilt; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University is seeking an experienced events planning, coordination, and execution professional to lead catering events on campus. You will coordinate menus, timelines, staffing, and logistics to deliver high-end service in a dynamic university environment.

This role includes supervising wait staff and student employees, ensuring safety, quality, and timely delivery, while driving continuous improvement in Campus Dining operations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute catering events in accordance with established goals, timelines, and service standards.
• Collaborate with Catering Management to develop logistical plans, event timelines, staffing assignments, and operational requirements.
• Prepare daily event pull sheets and task assignments to ensure seamless event execution.
• Oversee event setup, service, breakdown, and cleanup activities, ensuring events are completed efficiently and professionally.
• Maintain accurate event documentation and evaluate outcomes to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Lead, train, coach, and supervise contracted wait staff, student employees, and hourly union employees.
• Assign work, communicate expectations, and monitor performance to ensure compliance with departmental standards and event requirements.
• Foster a positive work environment through effective communication, conflict resolution, and employee engagement.
• Support employee development through ongoing training and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrate sound judgment in task delegation, prioritization, and escalation of operational or personnel concerns.
• Coordinate food, equipment, and supply deliveries to event locations while ensuring quality, safety, and timeliness.
• Operate department vehicles, including box trucks, vans, and golf carts, in a safe and responsible manner.
• Manage catering inventory, including equipment, linens, uniforms, décor, alcohol, and vehicles, and recommend repairs or replacements as needed.
• Assist with departmental deliveries and special event logistics to support Campus Dining operations.
• Continuously assess operational needs and recommend strategies to improve efficiency, service quality, and program growth.
• Maintain a safe work environment by enforcing safety standards, conducting safety audits, and ensuring compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
• Monitor customer service, food quality, event presentation, and employee performance to maintain high operational standards.
• Ensure food deliveries, handling, and service practices meet all applicable safety and sanitation requirements.
• Promote accountability and consistency through regular review of operational processes, event outcomes, and service expectations.

Job description

Vanderbilt University is seeking an experienced events planning, coordination, and execution professional to lead catering events on campus. You will coordinate menus, timelines, staffing, and logistics to deliver high-end service in a dynamic university environment.

This role includes supervising wait staff and student employees, ensuring safety, quality, and timely delivery, while driving continuous improvement in Campus Dining operations.