Director of Catering & Events

American Food & Vending; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly Pay

401K match

EAP

Medical plan

Prescription plan

Dental plan

Vision plan

FSA/HSA

Training & development

Bonus programs

Job summary

American Food & Vending, headquartered in Syracuse, NY, seeks a Director of Catering in Portland, ME. This hands-on, first-shift role leads all catering operations, from event design to on-site execution, ensuring client satisfaction and adherence to company standards.

The successful candidate will oversee the catering team, manage budgets, collaborate with clients, and drive growth through innovative event solutions, while maintaining daily dining operations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in event planning, catering coordination, or a related hospitality role.
• Strong time management, organization, and communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain productive client and business relationships.

Responsibilities

• Take an active, hands-on role in catering and dining operations, including production, service execution, setup, breakdown, and day-of event support.
• Plan, design, and execute catering events within established timelines and operational standards.
• Collaborate with clients to understand event needs, confirm expectations, and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Conduct market research, gather relevant event details, and support contract negotiations prior to finalizing agreements.
• Provide regular updates, feedback, and reports to internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate event logistics, including facilities, décor, catering, entertainment, transportation, location, invite lists, special guests, equipment, promotional materials, and related details.
• Determine staffing needs, coordinate team activities, and work alongside the team as needed to ensure smooth dining and event execution.
• Partner with marketing and public relations teams to promote and publicize events as appropriate.
• Research market trends, identify event opportunities, and generate interest in catering services.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Skills

Event planning

Client relationships

Time management

Communication

Hospitality knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Event Management or Hospitality

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

American Food & Vending, headquartered in Syracuse, NY, seeks a Director of Catering in Portland, ME. This hands-on, first-shift role leads all catering operations, from event design to on-site execution, ensuring client satisfaction and adherence to company standards.

The successful candidate will oversee the catering team, manage budgets, collaborate with clients, and drive growth through innovative event solutions, while maintaining daily dining operations.