Director of Catering

Position Overview:

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in event planning and catering management within the luxury hotel or resort industry, with a passion for hospitality, creativity, and attention to detail. This is a key leadership role that will require collaboration with multiple departments to ensure that every event is seamlessly executed and exceeds guest expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all aspects of catering operations at Marriott Pompano Beach Resort, ensuring exceptional service for events, meetings and banquets.
• Work with clients to understand their event needs, budgets, and preferences, creating customized catering solutions that align with their vision and expectations.
• Oversee menu creation and event design, collaborating with the culinary team to develop innovative, high-quality offerings that meet guest preferences and dietary restrictions.
• Coordinate and manage all logistical aspects of events, including setup, service, and breakdown, ensuring seamless execution and a positive guest experience.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with event planners, corporate clients, and wedding coordinators to drive catering revenue and repeat business.
• Supervise and train the catering team, including banquet captains, servers, and event staff, ensuring adherence to company standards of service, quality, and hospitality.
• Work closely with the sales and marketing teams to promote catering services, develop pricing strategies, and create marketing materials to attract new business and retain existing clients.
• Maintain and monitor catering event budgets, ensuring profitability and cost control while delivering exceptional service.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation standards in the preparation and service of food and beverages.
• Collaborate with other resort departments (e.g., housekeeping, audio/visual, and front desk) to ensure that all event needs are met and the guest experience is flawless.
• Handle client feedback, resolve issues or concerns promptly, and ensure customer satisfaction for all catered events.
• Monitor market trends, competitor offerings, and industry innovations to keep Marriott Pompano Beach's catering services fresh and competitive.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Business, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in catering management, event planning, or food and beverage leadership, with at least 2 years in a senior role in a luxury resort or hotel environment.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and direct a team to achieve excellence.
• Proven ability to design and execute high-quality, memorable events for a diverse clientele, including corporate, social, and wedding events.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a focus on exceptional customer service.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, pricing, and cost control for catering and events.
• In-depth knowledge of food and beverage service standards, including food safety and sanitation regulations.
• A creative approach to event design, with the ability to tailor offerings to individual client needs and preferences.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to oversee events and meet client needs.
• Proficient in event planning and catering software, Microsoft Office Suite, and other relevant systems.