Director of Events & Catering - The Starting Gate

GreatHorse, LLC is a luxury golf resort located in scenic western Massachusetts, offering an exceptional setting for weddings, corporate gatherings, and high-end social events. The Starting Gate at GreatHorse stands out as a premier venue known for its rustic elegance, breathtaking views, and exclusive event experiences. Hosting only one event per day, the venue provides personalized, disposable, and seamless hospitality services designed for clients who demand excellence and attention to detail. The resort's commitment to quality and exclusivity ensures every event is treated as a unique, high-profile occasion where guests can enjoy five-star dining and impeccable service in an atmosphere of luxury and refinement.

The Director of Events & Catering at GreatHorse is a pivotal leadership role responsible for driving the success and growth of the catering sales and event execution teams. This position requires a dynamic, results-driven professional who can expertly combine sharp sales acumen with a deep understanding of luxury hospitality standards. The Director manages all aspects of upscale events including weddings, corporate events, life celebrations, and premium social galas. From the initial inquiry to flawless execution, the Director oversees event coordination ensuring every detail aligns with the resort's commitment to luxury and guest satisfaction.

Key responsibilities include driving annual catering sales goals through strategic pricing, contract negotiation, and upselling premium packages such as fine liquor, upgraded decor, and golf experience additions. Collaborating closely with the Executive Chef, the role demands the creation of customized, lucrative catering menus that satisfy discerning clientele. Event planning is highly detail-oriented, involving the development of Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) that map timelines, menus, setups, and coordination with the golf operations for seamless integration of golf tee times and dining experiences.

Managing vendor relationships, including florists, designers, and entertainment providers, is critical to ensure a premium presentation that meets five-star standards. On-site leadership is essential during major events to oversee logistics and timing, guaranteeing a flawless guest experience. The Director also leads a team of approximately 50 professionals, including catering sales managers, event coordinators, servers, bartenders, and valet staff. Strong mentorship and recruitment capabilities are necessary to foster a motivated team aligned with the company’s luxury service values.

Financially savvy, the Director handles a multi-million-dollar venue budget, forecasting revenues, managing labor costs, tracking profit and loss per event, and approving vendor invoices. Close collaboration with executive leadership and the venue ownership is essential to ensure all events meet both financial and experiential goals. This role requires professionalism, flexibility for extended hours including weekends and holidays, and proficiency with event planning and catering software such as NorthStar, Social Tables, Canva, Circuit, and Microsoft Office Suite.

GreatHorse prides itself on its inclusive work environment and commitment to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a renowned luxury golf resort and event venue known for style, sophistication, and exceptional quality.