Assistant Events and Catering Manager

Job Summary

The Events & Catering Assistant Manager is responsible for coordinating event logistics and leading day-to-day execution of catering operations. This role bridges planning and on-the-ground execution, ensuring all operational details are clearly organized, communicated, and delivered successfully.

The Assistant Manager serves as a key operational leader, overseeing supervisors and hourly team members while driving accountability, organization, and execution. This role works closely with the Sr. Operations Manager to implement event plans, manage staffing, and maintain operational standards.

This position is both administrative and hands-on, requiring strong organizational skills, leadership, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

POSITION OBJECTIVES

All Assistant Managers are expected to:

· Coordinate event logistics and ensure successful execution of assigned events

· Communicate clearly across planning, culinary, and operations teams

· Maintain organization and accountability across multiple events and timelines

· Lead by example and uphold service, safety, and operational standards

· Deliver a high level of hospitality by creating a positive, welcoming, and service-focused environment for clients and guests

· Take ownership of day-to-day operations and resolve issues proactively

· Ensure accurate tracking of event execution, team performance, and attendance

· Adapt quickly to changing priorities and operational needs

Major Duties

Event Planning & Execution

· Translate event plans into clear, actionable steps for execution teams

· Lead on-site execution for assigned events, ensuring all logistics, staffing, and service elements are delivered successfully

· Serve as the operational lead during events, making real-time decisions to ensure smooth execution

· Attend planning meetings to confirm operational requirements and expectations

· Prepare event materials, timelines, and staging plans to support execution

· Identify and resolve operational issues in real time, escalating when necessary

· Actively support event setup, service, and breakdown as needed to ensure successful execution

· Ensure hospitality standards are reflected in event setup, flow, and guest experience

Daily Operations

· Oversee readiness of equipment, inventory, and event materials to ensure all items are prepared and available

· Develop and adjust staffing plans based on event volume and operational needs

· Ensure all prep, staging, and storage areas are organized, clean, and compliant with standards

· Monitor daily operations and follow up on outstanding tasks to ensure completion

· Coordinate vendor support to meet operational requirements

· Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards

· Support cost control efforts by maintaining awareness of event-related expenses and minimizing operational waste

· Assist with vendor invoice tracking, submission, and timely processing

Supervision & Team Leadership

· Direct and oversee supervisors and hourly team members to ensure accountability and execution

· Delegate responsibilities and establish clear ownership across the team

· Lead team direction during events and operational shifts

· Maintain accurate timekeeping and attendance records in compliance with company policies

· Monitor staffing coverage and address attendance or performance concerns in real time

· Support hiring, training, and onboarding of team members

· Provide real-time coaching and feedback to improve team performance

· Reinforce training standards and ensure team members are properly trained on operational procedures, safety practices, and service expectations

· Model and reinforce hospitality-driven behaviors, ensuring all team members deliver a welcoming and service-oriented experience

Customer Service / Hospitality

· Serve as the on-site operational contact for events, ensuring a high level of service delivery

· Deliver a consistently positive, professional, and hospitality-driven experience for clients and guests

· Address and resolve operational or service concerns promptly and professionally

· Ensure execution aligns with client expectations and company standards

· Anticipate guest needs and proactively enhance the overall event experience

· Communicate client feedback and event outcomes to leadership and planning teams

Secondary Duties

Administrative & Operational Support

· Track event details, timelines, and execution progress to ensure alignment

· Maintain and update operational trackers, including event feedback, execution notes, attendance, and follow-ups

· Document event outcomes, team performance, and operational insights to support continuous improvement

· Maintain inventory organization, ordering, and tracking processes

· Ensure completion of logs, reports, and compliance documentation

· Communicate proactively with the Sr. Operations Manager regarding priorities, challenges, and updates

· Ensure event details, changes, and execution notes are accurately documented to support billing and invoicing processes

· Accurate documentation supporting billing and invoicing processes

· Timely submission and tracking of vendor invoices

· Demonstrated awareness of operational costs and effort to minimize waste

Safety & Compliance

· Ensure all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards are followed

· Monitor proper storage, handling, and organization of food and equipment

· Identify and address safety risks in real time

· Ensure completion and accuracy of required operational and safety logs (e.g., temperature logs, cleaning schedules)

· Support ongoing training and reinforcement of safety procedures and compliance standards across the team

· Report and document any incidents, injuries, or compliance concerns

Qualifications

· Strong organizational and project coordination skills

· Experience in events, catering, or hospitality focused operations

· Demonstrated leadership experience in a fast-paced environment

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and execute detailed plans

· Strong communication and problem-solving skills

· Ability to balance administrative responsibilities with hands-on execution

· Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, based on business needs