Catering - Assistant Operations Manager

SSA Group; Brookfield (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Assistant Catering Operations Manager to elevate guest experiences at cultural attractions. This role involves overseeing catering operations, managing events, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. You will lead a dedicated team, fostering a positive work environment while promoting sustainability and inclusivity. If you have a passion for hospitality and a knack for problem-solving, this opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant and engaging setting. Join a team that values innovation and community engagement, and help create unforgettable moments for guests!

Benefits

Paid Time Off

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Supplemental Insurance

Training and Career Development

Tuition Discount

Meal Plan

Employee Discounts

Qualifications

• 2+ years in catering operations or event planning management.
• Strong leadership and problem-solving abilities required.

Responsibilities

• Ensure memorable guest experiences through excellent service.
• Oversee quality and inventory management for catering events.
• Maintain strong client relationships and manage staff effectively.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Leadership Skills

Problem Solving

Organizational Skills

Flexibility

Education

Relevant Education Background

Tools

Basic Office Software

Job description

Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America

Job Description

Posted Friday, March 14, 2025 at 5:00 AM

SSA Group is looking for a talented Assistant Catering Operations Manager to join their team!

Who are we:

SSA Group works with zoos, aquariums, museums, and other cultural attractions on integrating dining, retail, admissions and more. We increase revenue opportunities for partners across the United States. With 50 years in the business, SSA has refined the basics while pioneering better ways forward. With pillars of focus like sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, SSA is transforming the cultural attraction industry.

SSA was built by families, for families, with a family’s sense of love and dedication. We don’t just rely on the best practices in our industry, we customize best practices for each partner to set the bar higher and higher, always. We do all we can to further the mission of our partners because their guests and the communities they serve deserve it.

Reports to: Catering Operations Manager

Responsibilities

• Perform the steps of SSA EXTRA Guest Service to ensure a memorable experience for every guest and client.
• Oversee quality, product levels and inventory of product.
• Progressively document and discipline employees to promote better work performances compliant to the company policies and procedures.
• Fulfill guest’s needs quickly and efficiently as well as resolve complaints effectively.
• Plan and schedule events with client.
• Promote a positive attitude among teammates and guests.
• Facilitate the maintenance and repairs of the facility and equipment as necessary.
• Support communication with vendors.
• Support and manage communication with the other Catering Manager(s) and/or Director and unit specific contacts.
• Comply with all food safety regulations and practices.
• Maintain client correspondence in a timely manner.
• Maintain a strong positive relationship with the client.
• Create eye catching & innovative displays with Executive Chef and implement with catering staff.
• Manage operations of events and oversee team when multiple events occur.
• Oversee catering training and orientation of staff according to the onsite handbook and set expectations by your guidance.
• Support management of payroll and controllable profit within established guidelines. Meet payroll budget percent expectations by being strategic with coverage, on-call shifts, etc.
• Manage employees in accordance with State and Federal labor laws.
• Schedule appropriate staff levels in accordance with budget and business forecast.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organized work environment.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

IDEA + Belonging

• Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units.
• Focus on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.
• Lead by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; display knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary.
• Engage with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus on opportunities of giving back.

Job Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to our client, General Manager and HQ personnel.
• Proven leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
• Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical, planning and leadership skills.
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

Previous Experience

• Two years catering operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue.
• BEO knowledge and execution a must.
• All education backgrounds eligible.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job description. SSA Group reserves the right to revise the job description or to require that other or different tasks are performed when circumstances change (i.e. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs or technological developments).

SSA Group, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and equal opportunity through our commitment to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly, Non-Exempt. Pay is based on range in consideration of relevant job experience and certification/education.
• Paid Time Off
• Medical | Dental | Vision
• Supplemental Insurance
• Training and Career Development
• Tuition Discount through Partnership College
• Meal Plan & Employee Discounts