Catering & Events Operations Specialist

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University in Nashville seeks a dedicated Catering & Events coordinator to support the university's vision for catering and events. You will provide administrative support in a fast-paced environment and manage event details, calendars, and updates.

The role involves budgeting, invoicing, vendor payments, inventory, menu creation, and coordinating staff and vendors. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential, with a customer-service mindset.

Qualifications

• High school diploma is required; a college degree is preferred.
• Two to three years (24–36 months) of experience in off-site catering, restaurant operations, specialty events, or event planning is required.
• Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of clients, vendors, and colleagues.
• Knowledge of inventory management and purchasing is preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn catering and event management software.

Responsibilities

• Support the catering and events team's vision in a fast-paced environment.
• Manage event details, change log, calendars, and communications.
• Maintain event information in catering management software.
• Plan and prioritize multiple projects to meet deadlines.
• Handle event billing, invoices, and payments.
• Coordinate vendor payments and documentation.
• Manage inventory in the menu management system.
• Prepare menus, signage, and other event materials.
• Attend events as needed to support operations.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Multitasking

Verbal and written communication

Customer service

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma

College degree preferred

Tools

Catering software

Event management software

Menu management system

Job description

Vanderbilt University in Nashville seeks a dedicated Catering & Events coordinator to support the university's vision for catering and events. You will provide administrative support in a fast-paced environment and manage event details, calendars, and updates.

The role involves budgeting, invoicing, vendor payments, inventory, menu creation, and coordinating staff and vendors. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential, with a customer-service mindset.