Director of Catering

Daytona Beach, FL, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Professional development opportunities

flexible scheduling

Job Description

The DAYTONA Hotel, managed by Shaner Hotel Group, is a distinguished full-service hotel located directly across from the iconic Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. As the centerpiece of the vibrant ONE DAYTONA entertainment district, this hotel offers guests an exceptional blend of luxury and legendary experiences. With upscale dining, premier shopping, dynamic nightlife, and proximity to Daytona’s famous beaches, The DAYTONA stands as a premier destination for travelers seeking both excitement and refinement. The hotel operates as an independent franchisee under the Autograph Collection, which is a portfolio of unique, four- and five-star independent hotels that attract travelers who seek personalized and extraordinary experiences. Shaner Hotels, known for their entrepreneurial spirit and passion for hospitality, manage this location, emphasizing authentic connections and a culture of innovation and excellence.

The role of the Director of Catering at The DAYTONA Hotel is a leadership position focused on driving catering sales and overseeing the seamless execution of diverse events. This full-time management role demands a strategic and dynamic professional capable of elevating the hotel’s reputation as the top choice for exceptional weddings, social gatherings, corporate events, and galas. The Director of Catering will be integral to the hotel's sales efforts, aimed at increasing revenue and building strong relationships with clients, including corporate clients, wedding planners, and community partners. This position requires a passionate individual who thrives on creating remarkable guest experiences and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.

The Director of Catering will lead the development of strategic plans to grow the catering business, prospect new clients, negotiate contracts, and maintain excellent client relations from the initial inquiry through post-event evaluation. They will collaborate closely with culinary, banquet, operations, and sales teams to ensure flawless event delivery and outstanding customer satisfaction. The role demands strong organizational skills, project management ability, and a deep understanding of banquet operations and event planning systems. Additionally, the position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support client events.

Preferred candidates will hold a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Marketing, or a related field and may bring additional experience in wedding sales, culinary knowledge, or bilingual English-Spanish skills. This leadership opportunity offers a supportive environment where associates are valued, rewarded, and encouraged to innovate. Joining The DAYTONA Hotel means becoming part of a hospitality community that champions leadership with purpose and fosters meaningful career growth.

Job Requirements

Minimum 5+ years catering sales experience in upscale hospitality
Proven success meeting and exceeding revenue targets
Strong interpersonal and negotiation capabilities
Exceptional organizational and multitasking skills
Knowledgeable in banquet operations and event planning
Valid driver’s license
Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays
Bachelor’s degree preferred
Experience in wedding sales preferred
Culinary or food and beverage experience preferred
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred

Job Qualifications

Minimum 5+ years of successful catering sales experience in a high-volume resort, beachfront, luxury hotel, or destination hospitality environment
Proven track record of achieving and exceeding catering revenue goals
Strong sales, negotiation, presentation, and relationship-building skills
Exceptional organizational and project management abilities
Ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail
Knowledge of banquet operations, event planning processes, and catering sales systems
Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Marketing, or related field preferred
Wedding sales and planning experience preferred
Food and beverage or culinary background preferred
Bilingual English/Spanish skills preferred

Job Duties

Develop and execute strategic plans to increase catering and event revenue
Prospect, solicit, negotiate, and secure new catering business across multiple market segments
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, wedding planners, social organizations, and community partners
Meet with prospective and existing clients to understand event goals and vision
Conduct property tours showcasing the hotel’s event spaces and amenities
Develop customized proposals, contracts, and banquet event orders
Recommend menus, enhancements, and event solutions
Serve as primary client liaison during planning and execution
Coordinate closely with culinary, banquet, operations, and sales teams
Attend BEO meetings, tastings, site visits, and event functions
Welcome clients and guests during events to ensure exceptional experience
Conduct post-event follow-up to gather feedback
Partner with hotel leadership on strategic initiatives and daily operations
Maintain compliance with all hotel, franchise, and company policies
Contribute to a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement