Catering - Assistant Operations Manager

Colonial Group; Providence (RI); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SSA Group is seeking an Assistant Catering Operations Manager to support the Catering & Events team at Roger Williams Zoo, onsite. You will lead catering logistics, planning, coordination, and quality control to deliver memorable events.

Responsibilities include coordinating with Sales and Culinary teams, overseeing event setup and execution, and ensuring equipment and staff readiness for each function, including outdoor venues and varied hours.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years catering operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred.
• Minimum 2 years required; candidates with 4+ years will be given stronger consideration.
• Experience with outdoor venues is a plus.
• All education backgrounds eligible, must be 18 or older.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement detailed plans for catering events, including event orders, pull sheets, timelines, staffing schedules, visual appeal and logistics layouts.
• Coordinate with sales representatives to understand event requirements and ensure all details are accurately captured and executed.
• Oversee setup, execution, and breakdown of events, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
• Ensure equipment, supplies, and materials are available and in good working condition for events.
• Walk event spaces with Sales Team prior to events and address issues promptly.
• Collaborate across Sales, Culinary and other departments to ensure flawless event execution.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Financial management

Organizational skills

Computer skills

Physical stamina

Outdoor environment

Flexible hours

Team collaboration

Education

All education backgrounds

Tools

Tripleseat

Job description

Job Title: Assistant Catering Operations Manager

Department: Catering & Events

Location: Roger Williams Zoo, Onsite

Reports to: General Manager, Assistant General Manager, (Sr.) Director of Catering Operations, or (Sr.) Manager Catering Operations

Revenue Oversight: $300,000+

WHO ARE WE

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused.

We bring together admissions, culinary, and retail with innovation and human connection to shape a seamless guest journey.

Our focus is on people, innovation, and operational intelligence as a means to create special moments with lasting impact. We call it 452 Hospitality, the foundation of how we serve our partners and their communities.

JOB SUMMARY

The Assistant Catering Operations Manageris responsible for supporting the Event/Catering Sales and Culinary teams by leading the catering logistics planning, coordination, execution, and quality control of events. This role involves proficient knowledge of client relationships, event logistics, and delivering customer satisfaction. This position is ultimately responsible for the delivery of seamless and memorable events.

QUALIFICATIONS

Job Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.
• Proficient 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, analytical, and planning 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.
• (Outdoor Venues Only): Must be comfortable working in an outdoor environment, including exposure to the elements.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

Previous Experience

• Minimum 2 years catering operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience is required for this position; however, candidates with 4 or more years of experience will be given stronger consideration.
• Working knowledge of Tripleseat is a plus.
• All education backgrounds eligible, must be 18 or older.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Event Planning & Execution

• Develop and implement detailed plans for catering events, including event orders, pull sheets, execution timelines, staffing schedules, visual appeal and logistics layouts.
• Coordinate with sales representatives to understand event requirements and ensure all details are accurately captured and executed.
• Oversee the setup, execution, and breakdown of events, ensuring all aspects run smoothly and efficiently.
• Ensure all equipment, supplies, and materials are available and in good working condition for events.
• Walk event spaces with Sales Team before events to ensure everything is in working order and address any issues promptly.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with the Sales Team, Culinary Team, and other departments involved in events, developing and implementing new strategies and procedures where necessary to ensure events are executed flawlessly. Including, but not limited to:
  • Attend weekly BEO meetings to review all upcoming events, addressing concerns and needs to each event.
  • Distribute Operations Plan revisions to key stakeholders when necessary.
  • Advise Sales Team on any outstanding balances due post event.
  • Collaborate with Sales Team on floorplans and event flow.
  • Coordinate the need of cross-utilized products/equipment.
• Create eye-catching and innovative F&B displays in collaboration with the Culinary Team.
• Oversee quality, product levels, and inventory of Catering products.
• Facilitate the maintenance and repairs of Catering equipment as necessary.

Client Relationship Management