Catering Manager

Position Summary

The Catering Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing catered events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, including Indiana Pacers games, concerts, private events, and other special events. This role partners closely with Catering Sales, Culinary, Premium, Operations, and Client representatives to deliver exceptional hospitality experiences while driving revenue, controlling costs, and maintaining Levy standards. The Catering Manager oversees event execution, team member development, inventory management, and guest satisfaction while ensuring seamless event operations in a fast-paced entertainment environment.

Job Summary

Detailed Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of catered events throughout Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
• Ensure all catering events exceed guest and client expectations through exceptional service and attention to detail.
• Partner with Catering Sales and Culinary teams to successfully execute event orders, menus, and venue experiences.
• Communicate event details effectively to culinary, operations, warehouse, and hospitality teams to ensure flawless execution.
• Conduct pre-event meetings, event walkthroughs, and post-event recaps.
• Develop strong working relationships with clients, venue partners, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Monitor event operations to ensure adherence to Levy service standards, food quality standards, and show quality expectations.
• Hold team members accountable to service standards and provide coaching, development, and recognition.
• Ensure team members consistently deliver heartfelt hospitality to every guest, every time.
• Maintain venue-specific knowledge regarding premium offerings, food and beverage programs, and event operations.
• Manage event labor, scheduling, and staffing needs to maximize productivity and control costs.
• Monitor and maintain catering equipment, supplies, inventory, and operational readiness.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, alcohol service, and workplace safety standards.
• Support revenue growth through the promotion of catering services, premium experiences, and venue hospitality offerings.
• Analyze event performance, labor costs, and financial results to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support monthly forecasting, budgeting, and revenue planning initiatives.
• Utilize company reporting tools and systems to track operational and financial performance.
• Support company initiatives and contribute to creating a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture.
• Recruit, interview, hire, train, develop, and retain team members in accordance with Levy standards.
• Conduct performance management conversations and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.
• Lead departmental meetings and maintain clear communication within the team.
• Respond to and resolve guest concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Support major venue initiatives and special projects as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of catering, hospitality, food and beverage, premium hospitality, or event operations experience required.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience in large-scale sports, entertainment, convention, hotel, or event venues preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced event environment.
• Financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, labor management, and cost controls.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and hospitality management systems.
• Strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and responsible alcohol service standards.
• Passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and event-driven schedules.