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A leading company in the catering and event planning industry seeks a dedicated individual to oversee catering operations at the Denver Zoo. This role involves ensuring exceptional guest service, managing event logistics, and leading a team to deliver memorable experiences. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership and communication skills, with a background in catering or event planning. Join us in transforming the cultural attraction experience through innovative service and a commitment to inclusivity.
Denver Zoo, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
Posted Monday, May 12, 2025 at 6:00 AM | Expires Friday, June 13, 2025 at 5:59 AM
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 anddedication. 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 Manager(s)
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.
Oversee proper setup, execution, breakdown, and cleanup of each catered event.
Execute back of the house, front of the house and side work duties for overall productivity of banquet events.
Successfully interpret and execute BEOs to the high standards of the organization.
Possess expert-level knowledge of menus, food presentation, and food service techniques.
Perform strenuous manual labor as required (equipment storage, event setup, tear down of tables and chairs).
Work with the catering management team to supervise and train staff for all departments.
Manage rental orders, buffet cards, and diagrams for each event when applicable.
Able to explain and elaborate on event successes or failures.
Solve problems during events and implement creative solutions.
Maintain a friendly and approachable attitude towards the client, guests, and staff.
Communicate clearly and openly with all staff members for overall success.
Display a sense of urgency at all times.
Uphold a professional appearance and mannerism.
Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
Follow health and safety practices at all times.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
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.
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.
Operate all equipment necessary to perform job duties.
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.
IDEA + Belonging
Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units.
Focuses on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.
Leads by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; displays knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary.
Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On opportunities of giving back.
Previous Experience
Two-three years catering operations and/or event planning in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred.
BEO knowledge and execution preferred.
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.
Please note that for this position, we accept applications on an ongoing basis. There is no set deadline for submitting your application. We encourage interested candidates to apply anytime via our website at thessagroup.com. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, allowing us to continuously consider potential candidates until the right fit is found.
Compensation and Benefits
Hourly, Non-Exempt. Pay is based on range in consideration of relevant job experience and certification/education
Employee Assistance Program
Get Paid Early
Tuition Discount through Partnership College
Meal Plan & employee Discounts
Accrued paid sick leave is provided in accordance with state law. The applicable state/location is confirmed in each job posting .
All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").
San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document for more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document.
Denver Zoo, Denver, Colorado, United States of America