Catering Events Manager

Tufts Dining is a respected self-operated food service provider that manages a comprehensive collegiate food service program across the Tufts University Medford/Somerville and Boston/Fenway (SMFA) campuses. Serving a vibrant campus community that includes 6,500 undergraduates, 2,100 graduate students, and 2,300 staff, faculty, and administrators, Tufts Dining is committed to delivering high-quality, contemporary, and innovative food and hospitality services. Their operations include a progressive resident dining program, innovative retail services, and a distinctive university catering program. Every aspect of their service delivery aims to meet the diverse needs of the university population in a fiscally responsible manner while maintaining excellence in quality and customer satisfaction. As a part of this dynamic team, employees contribute to enriching the student and faculty experience through exceptional dining and catering services.

The position of Tufts Catering Event Manager is crucial to the success of the Tufts Catering services. This role is primarily responsible for executing all catering services performed by Tufts Catering, ensuring each event is managed seamlessly from start to finish. The Catering Event Manager oversees staff management, including training team members to industry standards, scheduling, and delivering exceptional customer catering service. By leading with a keen understanding of hospitality at the highest level, this role plays an integral part in establishing Tufts Catering as the preferred catering partner within the university community. The Catering Event Manager’s responsibilities also extend to solidifying the department-wide goals of Tufts Dining, improving revenue management through thorough planning and scheduling, and guaranteeing stellar customer service to ensure client satisfaction and repeat business.

This full-time role offers a competitive salary range from $55,600 to $83,400 annually, based on experience and expertise, with new hires typically earning between the minimum and midpoint. Ideal candidates are expected to bring expertise in foodservice management and catering operations, possessing knowledge of various catering services including standard, VIP, and themed events. Familiarity with fine dining and modern catering concepts such as interactive food stations, themed receptions, and VIP events is highly valued. A strong awareness of responsible alcohol service, including bar, wine, and cocktail knowledge, is essential. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate experience in managing multiple high-volume events concurrently, supervising full-service catering staff, and working in unionized environments. Culinary experience in high-end catering services or restaurants is a significant advantage.

Applicants are encouraged to submit a focused cover letter highlighting their relevant catering operations experience, including event planning, coordination, and execution, as well as team leadership and staff development. Experience in a unionized environment is a plus. Additionally, candidates may share their motivation for joining Tufts Dining and how their professional goals align with this opportunity. This role offers a meaningful chance to contribute to a well-established university dining program known for delivering outstanding hospitality experiences within a thriving academic community.