Catering Operations Manager

Wildlife Conservation Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

The Wildlife Conservation Society is seeking a Catering Operations Manager to oversee all catering functions at the Bronx Zoo. This full-time position will coordinate all banquet operations, work closely with the sales team and ensure the highest service standards during events.

The ideal candidate will have a college degree in hospitality, a minimum of 2-4 years experience, supervisory skills, and strong communication abilities. The role requires occasional travel and the flexibility to work evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years’ experience in catering/banquet field, 1 year in a supervisory capacity.
• Strong ability to manage tasks independently.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and supervise all banquet/catering functions.
• Work closely with sales to ensure event delivery.
• Supervise cleanup and breakdown of functions.
• Handle customer complaints and problem situations.
• Train and manage banquet staff.

Skills

Food and beverage knowledge

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

College degree in hospitality or equivalent experience

Job description

Position: Catering Operations Manager

Reports to: Sr. Catering Operations Manager

Position Managed: Catering Operations Assistant Managers, Part-Time Employees, Seasonal Associates

Location: Bronx Zoo/ On-Site

Department: Events & Catering

Scope: Bronx Zoo

Position Type: Full Time

Position Summary

This position is responsible for the execution of all catered functions, directly overseeing the delegation of responsibilities at the Bronx Zoo.

Principal Responsibilities

• Coordinate and supervise the execution of all banquet/catering functions including staffing, rental equipment and supplies, and day of execution.
• Work closely with Sales Staff to ensure delivery of a seamless event.
• Direct and assist banquet/catering staff during the event.
• Work directly with client to ensure all specified details are adhered to during the event.
• Support the department with the handling of customer complaints and rectifying problem situations.
• Supervise cleanup and breakdown of function and account for all equipment and supplies.
• Responsible for the hiring, training and supervising of banquet staff.
• Minimize legal liability and conform to the regulations of the alcohol beverage authority.
• Have the ability to perform all positions in banquet operations in order to supervise, direct and train all banquet personnel.
• Demonstrate the highest level of sanitation standards by adhering to all NYC Department of Health practices.
• Control labor by managing towards projected budget figures and closely monitoring schedules.
• Identify opportunities for improvement within operation and develop creative solutions.
• Prepare daily, weekly and monthly reports as required.
• Oversee the booking and execution of all WCS internal events based in the Bronx Zoo.
• Perform other related duties, tasks and responsibilities as required from time to time.

Qualification Requirements

• College degree in the hospitality field or equivalent experience
• Two to four years’ experience in the catering/banquet field, one year in a supervisory capacity
• Must possess a general knowledge of food and beverage procedures, control, and administration, as well as a complete awareness and ability to perform all catering positions
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail
• Able to balance numerous tasks simultaneously
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to work independently and operate a business without close supervision
• Strong Microsoft Office Suite skills; especially Excel.
• Valid driver’s license

Physical Demands

• This role requires consistent use of a computer, including keyboarding, mouse navigation, and fine finger manipulation.
• Employees will frequently engage in phone use, wrist and neck motion, and may alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day.
• The position involves regular walking, occasional stair climbing, and frequent driving.
• Be comfortable lifting and carrying items up to 35 lbs. frequently and up to 50 lbs. occasionally.

Workplace Conditions and Environment

• Occasional travel to other parks may be required.
• Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends, and holidays. Must be able to exert well-paced mobility to maneuver between functions occurring simultaneously.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging in a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, caste, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by laws and regulations.

Salary Range

$70,000 - $73,000