Catering Events Manager

Tufts Dining is a self-operated food service provider dedicated to managing a comprehensive collegiate food service program across the Tufts University Medford/Somerville and Boston/Fenway (SMFA) campuses. The organization prides itself on delivering high-quality, contemporary, and innovative food and hospitality services designed to meet the diverse needs of students, faculty, staff, administrators, and visitors. With a commitment to fiscal responsibility, Tufts Dining operates a progressive resident dining program alongside innovative retail services and a unique university catering program. Serving a vibrant campus community of approximately 6,500 undergraduates, 2,100 graduate students, and 2,300 staff, faculty, and administrators, the team works diligently to create exceptional dining experiences that reflect both quality and creativity.

The role of the Tufts Catering Event Manager is pivotal within this esteemed environment. Focused on executing all catering services performed by Tufts Catering, the position involves managing catered events personally, overseeing staff, and ensuring exceptional customer catering service standards are maintained and continuously improved. This role demands an individual who is well-versed in foodservice management and catering practices, including expertise in both standard and VIP catering services. The manager will be instrumental in training staff to meet industry standards and will uphold the highest levels of professionalism within the hospitality sector. The primary goal is to solidify Tufts Catering’s reputation as the preferred catering partner on campus by delivering outstanding service and innovative catering solutions.

Responsibilities include planning, organizing, and coordinating catered events and staff schedules in alignment with the dynamic needs of the university community. The Catering Event Manager will oversee staff management in strict adherence to the Collective Bargaining Contract, ensuring labor compliance and fostering a positive, respectful work environment. They are also responsible for training staff in exceptional catering service techniques, which contribute to a superior customer experience that encourages repeat business. Operational efficiency and revenue maximization are integral to the role, requiring the manager to be revenue-minded by thorough planning and strategic scheduling.

Tufts Dining encourages applications from candidates with a strong background in hospitality, management, or business, preferably at the associate degree level or higher. Prior experience managing events *for high-volume off-site caterers*, university catering services, hotels, or banquet facilities with multiple venues is essential. Moreover, candidates should have experience in fine dining and modern catering concepts, such as interactive food stations, themed receptions, and VIP events. Knowledge of responsible alcohol service, including bar, wine, and cocktail service, is also a key component of this role.

The position offers a competitive salary range reflecting experience and expertise, with minimum pay starting at $55,600, a midpoint of $69,500, and a maximum of $83,400. This range reflects internal equity and industry standards, with new hires typically positioned between the minimum and midpoint. Working at Tufts Dining provides an opportunity to join a progressive and innovative team devoted to culinary excellence and outstanding hospitality services within one of the nation's leading educational institutions. This role not only requires exceptional operational skills but also leadership qualities that foster staff development and maintain the highest levels of customer satisfaction in a dynamic, unionized work environment.