Catering Manager – University Dining & High-Volume Events

Overview
We are seeking an experienced Catering Manager to lead high-volume catering operations at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) in Johnson City, TN. This role oversees a complex, fast-paced catering program generating over $1.5M in annual volume across campus dining, retail, conferences, VIP events, and university functions.

The Catering Manager will be responsible for end-to-end catering operations, client event execution, team leadership, and financial performance within a dynamic university dining environment. This position plays a key role in delivering exceptional guest experiences while ensuring operational excellence, cost control, and compliance with food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily catering operations including food production, inventory, procurement, deliveries, invoicing, and event execution
• Manage high-volume catering and conference services, including VIP and multi-event days
• Partner with clients to design, plan, and execute catering events aligned with expectations and budgets
• Oversee catering sales coordination and ensure timely, accurate fulfillment of all event orders
• Supervise, schedule, and develop catering staff, ensuring effective delegation and performance management
• Maintain labor scheduling and timekeeping (e.g., Kronos or equivalent systems) and ensure labor cost control
• Monitor budgets and control costs across labor, food, equipment, and materials
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, physical safety, and regulatory standards, promoting a Zero Harm culture
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including culinary, front-of-house, and sales to ensure seamless service delivery
• Maintain accurate reporting, documentation, and operational tracking for catering activities

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required
• Minimum 3+ years of experience in catering, food service management, or food production
• Minimum 3+ years of supervisory/management experience in a high-volume catering or hospitality environment
• Proven experience managing catering operations at or above $1.5M in annual volume (or equivalent scale)
• Strong background in high-volume event execution, including VIP and multi-event coordination
• Experience with labor scheduling, payroll/timekeeping systems (e.g., Kronos or similar)
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, cost controls, procurement, and inventory
• Strong leadership, communication, and client relationship management skills

Preferred Experience

• University dining, corporate dining, hospital food service, convention centers, or large-scale catering operations
• Experience coordinating sales and operations for institutional or multi-stakeholder environments

What We're Looking For

• Strong operational leadership in fast-paced, high-volume catering environments
• Ability to manage competing priorities and last-minute event changes
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on service quality and execution accuracy
• Collaborative leader who can align culinary, FOH, and sales teams effectively

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $80,000 – $90,000 annually
• Sign-on bonus eligible (details provided during interview process)
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off & Company Holidays
• Career development and tuition reimbursement opportunities

Why Join Us
This is an opportunity to lead a high-impact catering program within a respected university dining operation, delivering exceptional experiences across academic, athletic, and community events while driving operational excellence and growth.