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Director of Catering | Luxury Events | Los Angeles
Description:
Rapidly expanding culinary group that is dedicated to best-in-class dining experiences and one-of-a-kind events is seeking an experienced and driven Director of Catering – Off-Premise to lead and grow our catering operations. This role is responsible for overseeing the entire event planning process, from initial client inquiry to execution. The Director of Catering will drive revenue growth, cultivate strong client and venue relationships, and ensure all off-premise events reflect the company’s brand standards. This is a leadership position that requires strategic sales acumen, operational expertise, and a passion for delivering exceptional catering experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
Business Development & Sales
- Develop and execute strategies to increase market share and revenue in off-premise catering.
- Actively network and cultivate relationships with corporate and private clients, event planners, and venue partners.
- Lead the sales team by setting annual goals, sales plans, and individual revenue targets.
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis to ensure the company’s catering offerings remain innovative and competitive.
- Oversee client outreach initiatives, leveraging marketing efforts to increase brand awareness.
Event Planning & Execution
- Oversee the entire event lifecycle, ensuring seamless execution and outstanding client satisfaction.
- Assign and manage leads, prioritizing high-value opportunities to maximize conversion.
- Attend key events as necessary to support the team and ensure client expectations are met.
- Utilize catering management software to create proposals, manage revisions, and track event details.
- Ensure staffing levels align with service standards and financial targets.
Financial Management & Performance
- Establish and achieve budgeted sales goals, ensuring profitability across all events.
- Monitor event profitability, ensuring costs align with company standards and budgetary goals.
- Manage accounts receivable (A/R) accountability, ensuring prompt payments and adherence to financial policies.
- Oversee forecasting, financial reporting, and weekly pace reports.
- Develop and implement action plans to address financial and operational challenges.
Marketing & Brand Development
- Work collaboratively with the marketing team to strengthen the brand and increase visibility.
- Develop and execute advertising and promotional strategies to enhance event bookings.
- Create marketing collateral, promotional materials, and digital content in partnership with the marketing team.
- Establish signature events to showcase catering offerings and engage with industry professionals.
Operations & Compliance
- Ensure all events adhere to health, safety, and licensing regulations.
- Oversee contract negotiations, invoicing, and compliance with company policies.
- Monitor event staffing and service levels, ensuring they align with operational budgets and quality standards.
- Collaborate with internal teams to enhance operational efficiency and guest experience.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Minimum of 5+ years of leadership experience in high-volume catering, hotel, or event operations.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience in hospitality or catering operations will be considered.
- Strong financial and business acumen, including experience managing P&L, cost control, and revenue forecasting.
- Proven ability to develop and lead high-performing sales and operations teams.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with a client-focused approach.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple priorities.
- Experience working with catering software, event management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Base Salary: $120,000 + Commission & Bonus Structure
- Comprehensive Benefits Package including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off & Sick Leave
- Tuition Reimbursement (for full-time employees)
- Commuter Benefits (Parking & Transit)
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Nine Paid Holidays
- Equal Employment Opportunity #AA