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

Oak View Group; 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 oversee operations at a prominent venue. This role demands culinary expertise and strong leadership to manage staff, control costs, and ensure high-quality service. The successful candidate will lead a dynamic team, ensuring guest satisfaction while maintaining operational excellence. With a focus on training and development, you'll play a crucial role in shaping the guest experience. This full-time position offers comprehensive benefits and a competitive salary, making it an exciting opportunity for those passionate about the food and beverage industry.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Matching

Paid Time Off

Qualifications

• 7+ years in the food & beverage industry with experience in volume feeding and catering.
• Proficiency in MS Office and knowledge of employee scheduling in hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Supervise food and beverage staff while ensuring cleanliness and maintenance meet standards.
• Control food and labor costs through effective scheduling and purchasing.

Skills

Culinary Skills

Cost Control

Staff Supervision

Effective Communication

Organizational Skills

Flexibility

Education

MA/MS or BA/BS in a related field

Tools

MS Word

Excel

Outlook

Job description

Overview

The Director of Food & Beverage oversees daily food and beverage operations at Wintrust Arena, ensuring guest satisfaction, profitability, and compliance with policies. Responsibilities include managing concessions, retail, purchasing teams, event planning, food prep, cost control, safety, sanitation, and staff supervision. The role demands high culinary proficiency, operational oversight, and support to ensure smooth food outlet and event operations.

This position guarantees quality service and food, staff training, and requires flexibility to work evenings and weekends. The annual salary ranges from $80,000 to $100,000. Full-time benefits include health, dental, vision insurance, 401(k), matching, and paid time off. The application deadline is July 18, 2025.

Responsibilities

• Supervise food and beverage staff, fostering a positive work environment
• Demonstrate and teach culinary skills and food presentation
• Control food and labor costs through scheduling and purchasing
• Ensure cleanliness and maintenance meet standards
• Manage inventory monthly
• Deliver high-quality, fresh food promptly to guests
• Collaborate with team on food prep, service, and delivery
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure operational readiness
• Uphold sanitation, health, and safety standards
• Test foods for proper cooking, portioning, and presentation
• Assist in menu planning and food consumption estimation
• Be a visible leader on the kitchen floor to ensure quality and efficiency

Qualifications

• MA/MS or BA/BS in a related field; equivalent experience accepted
• At least 7 years in the food & beverage industry
• Experience in volume feeding, fine dining, catering, and purchasing
• Effective communication skills across all staff levels
• Proven track record of meeting cost targets
• Professional appearance and presentation
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook
• Current Food Handler’s card and alcohol permit if required
• Knowledge of employee scheduling in hospitality
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Expertise in food prep, safety, and presentation
• Ability to supervise kitchen staff and manage menu costs
• Strong team orientation, multitasking, and adaptability
• Flexible schedule, willing to work nights, weekends, long hours