What are the responsibilities and job description for the Catering Operations Associate position at Word of Mouth Fine Catering?
About MML
At McGuire Moorman Lambert Hospitality, we create the world’s most memorable experiences by seamlessly blending food, service, and design. Under the leadership of Liz Lambert, Larry McGuire, and Tom Moorman, our hospitality philosophy centers on exceptional quality, storytelling, and thoughtful detail.
MML is continually expanding—owning and operating all of our properties and only taking on projects aligned with our values. With acclaimed hotels such as the Hotel Saint Vincent in New Orleans and new projects underway in Texas, Colorado, and California, we’re building a portfolio rooted in excellence and originality.
About the Role
Word of Mouth Fine Catering, a proud member of MML Hospitality, is seeking a highly organized, operations-driven Catering Operations Associate to support the day-to-day execution of catering logistics, internal coordination, and service operations for both drop-off and full service programs. This role is central to ensuring operational consistency, accuracy, and efficiency across production, distribution, and event support.
You will work cross-functionally with culinary, logistics, sales, and on-site event teams to ensure that all orders—drop-off, pick-up, and full-service—are executed to the MML standard of excellence.
Why You’ll Want to Work for MML
- Competitive Pay Performance Incentives
- Professional Development and Advancement Opportunities
- MML Property Discounts (Hotels, Restaurants, Retail)
- Comprehensive Health Benefits – Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life & Pet Insurance
- Retirement Benefits
- Parental Leave
- Paid Time Off
- Collaborative, Supportive, High-Standards Team Culture
- Community Service & Engagement Opportunities
What You’ll Do
Operations & Logistics Execution:
- Serve as the operational hub for daily catering activities, ensuring alignment between sales, culinary, service, and logistics teams.
- Oversee production timelines, delivery routing, equipment preparation, and day-of-order readiness.
- Monitor kitchen worksheets, production workbooks, and operational schedules to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
- Confirm prep lists, packing lists, and distribution needs for drop-off and full-service events.
- Ensure all orders meet quality, packaging, labeling, and timeliness standards.
- Troubleshoot last-minute changes, logistical challenges, or client needs in real-time.
- Identify operational improvements and implement systems that enhance consistency and scalability.
Event Administration & Documentation:
- Maintain detailed and accurate Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), ensuring all operational components are clearly communicated across departments.
- Post and distribute finalized BEOs, delivery manifests, and supporting materials to culinary and logistics teams.
- Prepare operational materials including menus, buffet cards, production binders, and equipment lists.
- Assist with contract collection, payment processing, and administrative workflows as needed.
Full-Service Event Support:
- Support the Catering Sales Manager in event coordination and production, and on-site operations for large-scale events.
- Assist with load-ins, equipment organization, and setup/strike as required.
- Maintain strong communication with event captains and on-site leads to ensure smooth execution and adherence to standards.
Communication & Cross-Department Coordination:
- Act as a liaison between departments to ensure all operational details are accurate and up to date.
- Provide clear, timely communication around changes, deadlines, and operational needs.
- Contribute to a positive culture by supporting collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Requirements
- Minimum 2 years of experience in catering operations, logistics, event production, or hospitality operations
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency with scheduling or event management platforms (e.g., Total Party Planner, 7Shifts, Google Workspace, Excel/Sheets)
- Ability to problem-solve and adapt quickly under pressure
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required
- Ability to stand, move, and lift up to 50 lbs
- Reliable transportation required
Physical Requirements
This role requires regular standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Employees may need to stoop, kneel, crouch, or climb. Vision abilities may include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Background Check
If an offer is extended, candidates must complete a comprehensive background check, which may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information.
Equal Opportunity Employer
MML Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and hiring decisions are based on job-related factors.