Catering Manager Soka University

Job Summary

Catering & Operations Manager

The Catering & Operations Manager will play a critical leadership role in overseeing all catering events and supporting daily operational excellence across campus dining locations.

Catering Responsibilities

The Catering & Operations Manager will be responsible for managing all catering and special events held on campus. This individual will serve as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring clear communication and exceptional customer service throughout the planning and execution process. 

Coordinating and managing all campus catering events from inquiry to completion.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, campus partners, and key stakeholders.
Assisting with the setup, execution, and breakdown of events to ensure all client expectations are exceeded.
Leading event staff and ensuring service standards are consistently maintained.
Addressing client requests, concerns, and last-minute changes in a professional and timely manner.
Identifying opportunities to grow catering sales and enhance the overall guest experience.

Operations Responsibilities

In addition to catering management, this position will serve as the Operations Manager for the Bistro and coffee shop. The successful candidate will support the General Manager in driving operational success and maintaining high standards across all service areas. 

Catering and event management experience
Strong operational and financial acumen
Team leadership, coaching, and staff development
Excellent communication and client-facing skills
Ability to multitask and perform well under pressure
Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
A proactive, "roll up your sleeves" attitude with a focus on getting the job done
Assisting with employee scheduling, labor management, and staffing plans.
Supporting safety, sanitation, and compliance programs to ensure a safe working environment.
Assisting the General Manager with financial reporting, budgeting, inventory management, and cost-control initiatives.
Monitoring daily operations to ensure quality, efficiency, and exceptional guest service.
Supporting staff development, coaching, and training initiatives.
Overseeing the coffee shop operation and assisting with overall business growth.
Managing marketing initiatives, promotional programs, and campus outreach efforts to increase engagement and sales.

Qualifications & Leadership Expectations

The ideal candidate will be highly organized, customer-focused, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment. This role requires a strong leader who can effectively balance event management and daily operations while fostering a positive team culture.

Key qualifications include:

Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
Proven ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with clients, guests, and team members.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
A hands-on leadership style with the willingness to assist staff before, during, and after service periods.
Ability to problem-solve, adapt quickly, and maintain professionalism under pressure.
Commitment to providing outstanding hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences.

This position is ideal for an energetic, organized, and service-oriented professional who enjoys building relationships, leading teams, and delivering successful events while supporting the overall operation of a dynamic campus dining program.