Director of Food & Beverage | Full-Time | McCormick Place Convention Center

Spectra; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Director of Food & Beverage to lead operations at a premier venue in Chicago. This role demands culinary expertise, strong leadership, and a commitment to guest satisfaction. You will oversee a dynamic team, manage food costs, and ensure compliance with safety standards. With a focus on quality service and staff training, this position offers the chance to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment. Join a forward-thinking organization that values diversity and inclusivity while providing top-notch hospitality services.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Savings Plan

401(k) Matching

Paid Time Off

Qualifications

• 7+ years in food & beverage industry with management experience.
• Proficiency in culinary skills and staff training.
• Ability to manage costs and maintain high standards.

Responsibilities

• Supervise food and beverage staff, ensuring quality service.
• Manage inventory and food costs effectively.
• Plan menus and oversee food preparation.

Skills

Culinary Skills

Cost Management

Effective Communication

Organizational Skills

Food Safety Knowledge

Team Management

Education

MA/MS or BA/BS in related field

Tools

MS Word

Excel

Outlook

Job description

Oak View Group

Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.

Position Summary

The Director of Food & Beverage is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the food and beverage department in accordance with OVG policies and objectives to ensure guest satisfaction, profitability, and a positive, productive, and compliant work environment. The Director manages concessions, retail, and purchasing teams at the Wintrust Arena, including event planning support, scheduling, food preparation and production, food cost control, compliance with food safety and sanitation policies, cleaning, kitchen safety, employee training, and supervision. The role requires providing oversight, culinary proficiency, and operational support to ensure the smooth running of all food outlets and events.

The Director ensures the delivery of quality food and beverage services to guests, oversees staff training across kitchens, catering, concessions, and support staff, and maintains excellent attendance. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends is required, along with professional presentation, outstanding interpersonal skills, and self-direction.

This role offers an annual salary of $80,000-$100,000.

Benefits

Full-Time roles include: Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, 401(k) savings plan, 401(k) matching, and paid time off (vacation, sick days, and holidays).

Application Deadline

Position remains open until July 18, 2025.

About the Venue

McCormick Place, located in Downtown Chicago, is the largest and most flexible convention center in North America, with over 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space. It hosts some of the world's largest conventions, meetings, and trade shows, attracting approximately 3 million visitors annually.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate food and beverage staff, fostering a positive work environment.
• Demonstrate culinary skills and train staff in preparation and presentation.
• Manage food and labor costs through scheduling and purchasing.
• Conduct inspections to ensure cleanliness and maintenance standards.
• Oversee inventory management.
• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality, fresh food products to guests.
• Participate in team efforts to provide excellent service.
• Manage storage, maintenance, and repair of kitchen equipment.
• Maintain sanitation, health, and safety standards.
• Monitor food cooking and presentation quality.
• Plan menus and estimate food consumption in consultation with managers.
• Work actively on the kitchen floor to oversee operations.

Qualifications

• MA/MS or BA/BS in a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 7+ years in the food & beverage industry.
• Experience in volume feeding, fine dining, catering, and purchasing.
• Effective communication skills for all staff levels.
• Proven track record of managing costs.
• Professional appearance and presentation.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook.
• Current Food Handler’s card and alcohol service permit if required.
• Knowledge of employee scheduling in hospitality.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Technical knowledge of food preparation and safety.
• Ability to supervise and communicate effectively with staff and guests.
• Menu costing and development skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and long hours.

Our Commitment

At OVG, we believe diversity and inclusivity drive innovation and excellence. We are committed to creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities we serve.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Oak View Group is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on veteran status, race, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected class.