Catering Director - Cambridge, MA

The Catering Director will oversee all aspects of our catering and high-end event operations, providing leadership and strategic direction for a team of talented professionals. You will ensure exceptional quality and seamless execution of every event while fostering relationships with clients and driving sales growth. As a senior leader, you will be responsible for managing both the creative and operational sides of the business, including menu development, financials, and client relationships, with a strong focus on high-touch service and luxury experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and oversee internal and external high-end catering events, ensuring flawless execution across all phases-planning, setup, service, and cleanup.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with clients, offering personalized event planning and ensuring their vision is brought to life with impeccable service.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to develop customized and innovative menus that cater to client preferences and dietary requirements while maintaining exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Hire, train, and schedule catering staff, ensuring they meet the company's service standards. Support the ongoing development of the team in key areas such as service techniques, menu presentation, and event procedures.
• Manage event budgets, controlling food and labor costs, while ensuring profitability. Develop pricing strategies for events, and assist in forecasting and financial reporting.
• Support sales initiatives and help drive the growth of catering services. Collaborate with the sales team to move bookings and generate new business.
• Provide high-touch customer service, ensuring every detail is carefully executed and exceeds client expectations. Prioritize luxury service standards and consistently deliver top-tier experiences.
• Manage the forecasting of event needs, including labor, equipment, and supplies. Develop detailed event plans and coordinate with clients to ensure all logistical requirements are met.
• Use catering software (CaterTrax or similar platforms) to manage event planning, menu selection, orders, and financial tracking.

Requirements:

• Must have a proven track record as a Catering Director, with extensive experience in catering event management, high-end events, and client relationship building. Experience in luxury hotel environments is highly preferred.
• Catering Software Expertise required
• CaterTrax experience is strongly preferred, or equivalent catering platform experience. Familiarity with event management tools and platforms is essential.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, pricing, cost control, and financial forecasting for catering and event operations.
• Deep understanding of high-touch service delivery and luxury client care. Ability to anticipate client needs and exceed expectations.
• Some sales experience is preferred, with the ability to support and drive catering sales through both direct interaction and collaboration with the sales team.
• Must be a senior leader with the ability to manage a team, make strategic decisions, and contribute to the overall success of the catering department.
• Strong background in planning, coordinating, and executing high-end events, including large corporate functions, weddings, and other prestigious gatherings.
• Bachelor's Degree n Hospitality, Culinary Arts, or related field is preferred.