What are the responsibilities and job description for the Catering & Events Manager position at Renaissance Harlem?
We are seeking a highly organized, service-oriented professional to lead catering and event operations from planning through execution. In this role, you will coordinate exceptional guest experiences, manage event logistics, and partner with internal teams and external clients to deliver memorable functions that meet quality, timing, and budget expectations.
Responsibilities
- Plan, organize, and oversee catering services and events from initial inquiry through completion.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
- Develop event plans, timelines, floor plans, staffing needs, and service requirements.
- Coordinate food, beverage, and equipment needs to ensure smooth event execution.
- Manage budgets, invoices, contracts, and event-related administrative tasks.
- Collaborate with culinary, operations, sales, and service teams to align on event details.
- Monitor event setup, service standards, and breakdown to ensure a professional guest experience.
- Resolve issues quickly and effectively while maintaining a calm, customer-focused approach.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and vendors.
- Track event performance and identify opportunities to improve service, efficiency, and profitability.
Qualifications
- Experience in catering, events, hospitality, food service, or a related field.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external partners.
- Comfortable managing deadlines, budgets, and changing event requirements.
- Problem-solving skills and a proactive, detail-oriented mindset.
- Proficiency with standard office software and event management tools preferred.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Preferred Experience
- Background in hospitality, banquet management, or large-scale event coordination.
- Experience managing budgets, staffing plans, and vendor relationships.
- Familiarity with catering production, service standards, and event logistics.
- Experience supporting both private and corporate events.