Director of Food and Beverage

Mayo Civic Center, located in Rochester, MN, is a renowned venue that hosts a wide variety of events including conventions, trade shows, concerts, and community gatherings. As a prominent convention center and event facility, Mayo Civic Center is dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences to its guests through outstanding event services and operational excellence. The center is known for its versatile spaces, accommodating both large-scale events and intimate gatherings, making it a vital part of the community and an essential hub for business and entertainment events in the region.

The Director of Food & Beverage at Mayo Civic Center plays a critical leadership role with comprehensive responsibility over all food and beverage operations. This includes management of concessions, premium hospitality services, catering operations, and special event sales. The Director ensures that guests receive superior service and memorable experiences by maintaining high operational standards, overseeing financial performance, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. This is a strategic role that requires strong leadership skills, operational expertise, and the ability to nurture partnerships with venue partners, clients, and internal stakeholders.

As the head of the food and beverage department, the Director is tasked with reviewing and approving budgets, analyzing sales and labor data, and making informed decisions to drive operational efficiency and cost control. They lead efforts in sales projections and manage the financial aspects of food and beverage events to meet performance goals. A key part of the role involves developing and implementing operational standards, supporting new business development, and promoting the food and beverage services to expand the venue’s client base.

The position also involves close collaboration with finance and support teams to ensure compliance with company policies and regulations, including adherence to liquor laws and health department requirements. Leadership extends to operational planning and conducting post-event reviews to continuously improve service quality and financial outcomes. Additionally, the Director is responsible for inspecting facilities to ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Candidates for this role should possess a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Food & Beverage Management, or a related field preferred, along with a minimum of five years of leadership experience managing food and beverage operations in large venues such as arenas, convention centers, or similar hospitality environments. The ideal candidate will have expertise in budgeting, financial forecasting, labor management, vendor relations, and contract negotiations. Experience working within union environments is considered a valuable asset.

The Director of Food & Beverage must also demonstrate excellent communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest service. The ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is essential due to the nature of event scheduling. Physical demands of the position include lifting, standing for long periods, and operating in both indoor and outdoor environments as required by event needs.

Mayo Civic Center offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a robust benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, paid vacation, and a 401k plan, underscoring its commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. Working on-site in Rochester, MN, this position provides the opportunity to be part of a vibrant team that values teamwork, innovation, and a high standard of excellence in service delivery.

The organization strongly supports diversity and inclusion, inviting women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans to apply. This is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace environment.