Catering & Events Operations Lead

Position Summary

The Catering & Events Operations Lead is responsible for overseeing on-site event operations, ensuring exceptional guest service, and leading event staff through the successful setup, execution, and breakdown of catered events across multiple venues. This role serves as the primary point of contact during events and ensures all services are delivered according to company standards and client expectations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Review event details, including but not limited to the details on the Banquet Event Order, and communicate event requirements to staff prior to service.
• Manage event timelines and ensure all operational milestones are met.
• Assign responsibilities and delegate tasks to event staff.
• Ensure adequate staffing levels are maintained during events and communicate staffing needs to management.
• Be proficient in all aspects of event service, including setup, buffet presentation, food and beverage service, bartending, and event breakdown.
• Lead by example and help team members follow established service standards, policies, and procedures.
• Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Coordinate and oversee the transportation, setup, execution, and breakdown of off-site catering events.
• Serve as the on-site liaison between clients, guests, vendors, and event staff.
• Respond promptly and professionally to guest requests, concerns, and service issues.
• Exercise sound judgment and make real-time operational decisions to ensure successful event execution.
• Ensure event spaces remain clean, organized, and presentable throughout the event.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, alcohol service, and workplace safety standards.
• Train and mentor new team members on service standards and operational procedures.
• Lead by example, maintaining a positive attitude and professional appearance at all times.
• Build positive working relationships with clients, vendors, and team members.
• Ensure all event spaces, storage areas, bars, and service stations are maintained according to company standards.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness of all event storage areas, including the 2MR storage unit.
• Ensure all equipment, rentals, and supplies are labeled, inventoried, and stored properly after each event.
• Conduct regular inventory counts of event equipment, beverages, disposables, and service supplies.
• Communicate inventory and ordering needs to Management and assist with restocking.
• Assist with inventory, equipment handling, and event logistics as needed.
• Identify recurring operational challenges and work with management to develop processes and solutions that improve efficiency and event execution.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of catering, banquet, hospitality, or event experience.
• Experience with overseeing multiple events simultaneously preferred.
• Previous lead or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to think quickly, solve problems, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional appearance, excellent interpersonal skills, and strong sense of urgency.
• Ability to speak effectively with guests, clients, and employees.
• Ability to lift, push, and carry up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments in varying weather conditions.
• Illinois BASSET Certification required or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
• Food Handler Certification required or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

Work Schedule

Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.

This position is hands-on and working alongside the team, focusing on event execution and staff supervision rather than sales, budgeting, scheduling, or other management-level responsibilities.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. WE DO NOT DISCRIMINATE WITH REGARD TO RACE, SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, SEXUAL PREFERENCE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, CITIZENSHIP, HANDICAP OR DISABILITY, AGE, VETERAN STATUS, MARITAL STATUS, PREGNANCY OR PREGNANCY RELATED MEDICAL CONDITIONS, OR ANY OTHER CATEGORY PROTECTED BY LAW IN REGARD TO ANY EMPLOYMENT DECISIONS.