CATERING LEAD SERVER

Job Summary

The Catering Lead Server is responsible for the planning, coordination and execution of catering functions and other special events in the Neenah Conference Center. The Lead Server coordinates catering schedules to ensure all functions are delivered, served and cleared in a timely fashion. Prepares and serves food at scheduled functions under the supervision of the Conference Center Manager.

Key Job Duties:

• Brews coffee for conference center guests daily.
• Determines workload requirements from catering orders.
• Meets with conference center team to discuss setup arrangements; address last-minute changes and resolve problems in a service-oriented manner.
• Demonstrates complete understanding of menu items.
• Performs catering set up in atrium or designated meeting rooms to desired specifications.
• Assembles and delivers food and supplies to scheduled locations.
• Ensures event meals are set up on time.
• Returns food, beverages, serving equipment and utensils to catering facility.
• Ensures proper presentation, portion control and maintenance of serving temperatures; follows HACCP standards.
• Maintains sanitation and orderliness of all equipment, supplies and utensils.
• Maintain positive client relationships and ensure a timely response with clients and customers.
• Maintains presence on floor to ensure that functions flow smoothly and without incident.
• Effectively plan and communicate all relevant internal departments and vendors’ specific needs of the client, and food and beverage requirements.
• Participate in Daily and weekly Planning meetings attended by the Conference Manager, Coordinator, and members of the operations staff to review the details of events scheduled for the following day and next week, ensuring correct interpretation by staff members of client’s requirements and anticipating any possible operational challenges.
• Establish & maintain excellent working relationships with key internal departments, including meetings, to help formulate strategies for planning effective and successful meetings
• Provide outstanding customer service to set examples for teammates.
• Knowledge of health and safety codes and regulations that apply to the conference center and report any known issues.

Key Competencies:

• Must possess or able to obtain a valid food handler's permit, Serv Safe certification, and/or alcohol servers permit where required by state law.
• Prior experience in catering preferred.
• The ability to manage in a diverse environment with strong focus on client and customer services, entrepreneurship and bu1ld1ng and growing a strong business is essential for success in this role
• Ability to communicate effectively with high levels clients, client customers and support staff is required. Responsible for effectively meeting the changing demands of the event and clients
• High level of maturity, attention to detail and a positive "can do" attitude is a must.
• Proficiency in all Microsoft Office applications is required. P&L accountability and/or contract-managed service experience is desirable
• Excellent Customer Service Skills