Catering and Operations Manager - Soka University of America

Short Description

At Bon Appétit Management Company, we are committed to creating exceptional dining experiences through fresh, sustainable food and outstanding hospitality. Located on the beautiful campus of Soka University of America, the Catering & Operations Manager plays a vital role in delivering memorable events while supporting the success of the university's dining program.

We are seeking a seasoned, hands-on leader with a strong background in catering and food service operations. The ideal candidate is passionate about hospitality, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and leads by example. This individual is willing to roll up their sleeves, support the team wherever needed, solve problems in real time, and ensure every event and daily operation is executed with excellence.

Job Summary

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of all catering events and daily food service operations, ensuring exceptional hospitality and flawless event execution.
• Oversee event logistics, staffing, scheduling, setup, service, breakdown, and invoicing while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Recruit, train, coach, schedule, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and service excellence.
• Lead by example by remaining actively involved in day-to-day operations, stepping in wherever needed to support the team and ensure operational success.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, clients, faculty, staff, and guests while serving as the primary point of contact throughout the event planning process.
• Partner with culinary leadership to deliver high-quality food, exceptional service, and memorable guest experiences.
• Manage labor, purchasing, inventory, catering revenue, and operating expenses to achieve financial and operational goals.
• Utilize catering management systems to process event orders, maintain client information, manage reporting, and ensure accurate billing.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, sustainability, and company standards while identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiency and service quality.
• Resolve operational challenges proactively, balancing multiple deadlines with professionalism, sound judgment, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Business, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 3+ years of progressive leadership experience managing catering, hospitality, or food service operations.
• Proven success leading high-volume catering programs and complex event execution.
• Strong leadership skills with experience coaching, developing, and motivating teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and client relationship management skills.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, labor management, cost controls, and operational reporting.
• Highly organized with exceptional multitasking, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and web-based catering or event management systems.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a collaborative, team-first approach.
• Flexible schedule with the ability to work evenings, weekends, and special events as business needs require.
• Knowledge of sustainable food practices and a passion for hospitality is highly preferred.

What You'll Bring:

Success in this role requires a leader who is visible, approachable, and willing to do whatever it takes to support the team. You'll thrive if you:

• Lead from the front and aren't afraid to jump in wherever needed.
• Stay calm under pressure while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Build trust with clients and associates through strong communication and follow-through.
• Inspire teams through coaching, accountability, and a positive attitude.
• Take ownership of challenges, solve problems quickly, and focus on delivering exceptional results every day.

If you're an experienced hospitality leader who enjoys creating memorable experiences, developing teams, and making a meaningful impact through service excellence, we'd love to hear from you.