Catering Manager 2

Sodexo is a global leader in quality-of-life services, dedicated to improving the everyday experiences of the people they serve. With a broad portfolio including food services, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions, Sodexo operates across various sectors worldwide. Their Campus Segment specifically focuses on delivering exceptional dining and event experiences tailored to the unique needs of educational institutions. Sodexo values diversity, inclusion, and respect, fostering a workplace where employees can bring their authentic selves to work and contribute meaningfully to the team and community. Their commitment to equality is also reflected in their hiring practices and workplace culture, ensuring that every member is treated fairly regardless of background.

Sodexo's Campus Segment is currently seeking a talented Catering Manager 2 to join their team at UMass Boston. Known as the most diverse university in New England and one of the most diverse in the nation, UMass Boston is on the cusp of a dynamic new era marked by growth, innovation, and increasing impact. The university offers a vibrant environment where excellence is a shared commitment, making this role both exciting and impactful. The Catering Manager 2 will play a pivotal role in shaping unforgettable catering experiences that resonate with the campus community and beyond.

In this comprehensive role, the Catering Manager 2 is responsible for overseeing the full scope of catering operations from the initial planning stages to the successful completion of events. This service-driven, detail-oriented position requires someone who can expertly manage event logistics, lead and inspire staff, engage clients proactively, and coordinate effectively with vendors to ensure every event runs smoothly and meets high standards. Responsibilities include developing event timelines, staffing plans, and service flow strategies, as well as ensuring compliance with all food safety, health, and sanitation regulations. The manager will also maintain accurate menu information including allergen details to safeguard guest wellbeing.

Leadership is a critical component of this role. The Catering Manager 2 recruits, trains, supervises, and schedules catering staff, providing hands-on direction during events to uphold exemplary service standards. Creating a positive and accountable team culture focused on guest satisfaction is an essential part of the leadership responsibilities.

Client coordination is another vital area, with the Catering Manager 2 serving as a primary point of contact during consultations and on-site event execution. This requires excellent communication skills and the ability to resolve challenges professionally with a customer-first approach.

The role also includes vendor and inventory management duties such as coordinating rentals, linen services, and specialty vendor needs, managing inventory levels and ordering supplies including alcohol, and controlling labor and costs to meet financial goals.

Sodexo offers a fair and equitable compensation package, which is determined based on the candidate’s education, years of relevant experience, skills, and training. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision care, wellness programs, a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, career growth opportunities, and tuition reimbursement. New employees receive detailed information about benefits upon hire.

Ideal candidates will bring experience delivering high-end catering events with a proven track record of creating visually stunning and memorable experiences. Strong operational knowledge of logistics, safety, and service standards is essential, along with a demonstrated ability to drive catering sales and build lasting client relationships. Excellent communication, organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to motivate diverse teams in fast-paced environments are critical to success. Strong client references from previous catering roles or event partners further strengthen a candidate’s profile.

Joining Sodexo means becoming part of a mission-driven company dedicated to creating better everyday experiences for all individuals. Their focus on diversity and inclusion ensures a workplace where all employees are valued and respected, making Sodexo a great place for those seeking to grow professionally while contributing meaningfully to their community and industry.