Catering Chef Manager - Trinity SchooI

Job Summary

As Catering Chef Manager, you will lead all catering efforts, ensuring seamless execution of events from planning through completion. We are seeking a talented chef with a strong culinary foundation—ideally with fine dining experience—to oversee all aspects of the catering program, including client consultations, menu development, staff leadership, inventory control, and event execution.
You will manage event logistics, staffing, service standards, and client communications while maintaining a strong focus on food quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction. This role requires strong leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a multifaceted, school-based environment. Events range from small snack deliveries and cocktail receptions to formal plated dinners hosted in the Headmaster’s home. The Catering Chef Manager plays a meaningful role in upholding brand standards while creating memorable dining experiences for students, faculty, parents, and guests.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and execute catering events and campus programs, ensuring excellence in service, presentation, and overall experience.
• Oversee all aspects of catered events, including client consultations, menu planning, staffing, logistics, and execution.
• Collaborate with culinary teams to develop creative, high-quality menus aligned with client needs and event styles.
• Lead event logistics, including setup, service, breakdown, and coordination of onsite operations.
• Train and mentor catering associates in service techniques, menu presentation, food safety, and customer service excellence.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and quality standards at all times.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships with students, faculty, parents, and school administrators to support community engagement and repeat business.
• Partner with campus teams to create engaging, food-focused events that reflect the school culture.
• Support marketing efforts, including social media content, promotions, and visual merchandising.
• Gather and analyze guest feedback to continuously improve catering services and offerings.
• Provide on-site leadership and problem-solving during events to ensure smooth, successful execution.
• Utilize catering software platforms (e.g., Catertrax, Spoonfed) to manage event details and communications.
• Monitor timelines, budgets, food and labor costs, and overall performance of catering programs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in hospitality, food and beverage management, or catering operations.
• Culinary background required; fine dining experience strongly preferred.
• Associate’s degree or higher in Hospitality Management, Event Planning, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
• Experience in event planning, conference services, or campus catering environments strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, presentation standards, and current catering trends.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to train and develop service teams.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to interact effectively with diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and catering/event management software.
• Creative, detail-oriented professional with a passion for hospitality, guest engagement, and community-building.