Catering Operations Lead for Events

Columbia University Facilities & Operations; New York (NY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia University Facilities & Operations is seeking an Assistant Manager, Catering Operations to oversee day‑to‑day event functions and guest experiences on campus. You will ensure quality service, supervise staff, and coordinate with culinary teams to deliver successful catered events.

The role emphasizes event logistics, client interaction, and adherence to sanitation standards, with opportunities to influence catering policies and improvements across campus facilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree and/or equivalent experience.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proficient in Word and Excel.
• Excellent customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the actual set‑up of assigned functions by reviewing menu information with servers and coordinating timing with culinary staff.
• Arranges temporary staff, room assignments, décor, and enhancements as they relate to room setups; communicates changes as needed.
• Monitors temporary staff appearance, attitude, and professionalism to meet UEM service standards.
• Ensures adherence to Federal, State, Local and Columbia University sanitation and OSHA rules when the Assistant GM is unavailable.
• Supports catering event logistics: coordination, transportation, personnel, equipment and related tasks.
• Serves as primary liaison during catered events to handle problem resolution, service and closeout.
• Recommends changes in catering operations policies and procedures as appropriate.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Word

Excel

Microsoft Office

Kronos Payroll System

EMS

Delphi

Job description

Columbia University Facilities & Operations is seeking an Assistant Manager, Catering Operations to oversee day‑to‑day event functions and guest experiences on campus. You will ensure quality service, supervise staff, and coordinate with culinary teams to deliver successful catered events.

The role emphasizes event logistics, client interaction, and adherence to sanitation standards, with opportunities to influence catering policies and improvements across campus facilities.