Senior Catering Manager

Sodexo is a global leader in quality of life services, dedicated to improving the daily lives of people around the world by delivering exceptional food service, catering, facilities management, and integrated solutions. With a strong presence in numerous countries, Sodexo partners with diverse clients across various sectors including education, healthcare, corporate, and government, achieving excellence in service delivery while promoting sustainability and social responsibility. The company is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment where employees can thrive and contribute meaningfully, ensuring a memorable experience for customers and employees alike.

Sodexo is currently seeking a Senior Catering Manager to join its prestigious university account located in the heart of the Washington D.C. area, which includes two campuses and is renowned for its vibrant and high-volume catering operations. This role represents a significant opportunity as Sodexo prepares for a potential sale of this account. As a Catering Manager 4-level position, the individual will be responsible for overseeing all on-campus catering activities, managing event concepts, building strong partnerships, and ensuring the highest standards in the catering program. The role demands excellence in customer service and the ability to maintain key client relationships to foster repeat business and customer satisfaction.

This senior-level position entails comprehensive management of catering resources including recipes, systems, food production, inventory, deliveries, procurement, and invoice management. The manager will supervise daily catering events, ensuring efficient operations while maintaining budget compliance through rigorous cost controls in labor, inventory, and materials. They will act as a critical liaison between sales, culinary, and front-of-house teams to fulfill all orders accurately and timely, including accommodating last-minute requests. A keen eye for detail is necessary to review catering event orders and weekly schedules to guarantee accuracy.

The Senior Catering Manager will also uphold workplace safety by reinforcing food safety standards and physical safety requirements in various environments, adhering to both regulatory frameworks and Sodexo’s own rigorous standards. They will champion the Zero Harm safety culture. Leadership responsibilities include delegating tasks, prioritizing activities, and supervising employees to uphold operating standards and meet organizational goals.

Sodexo values the well-being of its personnel and offers a comprehensive compensation package that recognizes your education, skills, and relevant experience. The benefits include medical, dental, vision care, wellness programs, 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, career development opportunities, and tuition reimbursement. Relocation assistance is also available for the right candidate.

Candidates ideal for this role will bring a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and at least three years of management experience alongside relevant functional experience in catering, food production, or food service management. They should demonstrate the ability to maintain effective communication between sales and culinary teams, adhere strictly to labor cost controls using tools like Kronos, and provide positive and practical solutions when faced with client queries within the framework of catering policies.

Joining Sodexo means becoming part of a global company that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring you are respected and your voice is heard. Sodexo’s inclusive culture encourages creativity and innovation, providing a rewarding career path for those seeking to grow in the hospitality and food services industry within an established and reputable organization.