Senior Event & Hospitality Manager (Catering & VIP Events)

Stanford University is recognized globally as a leading institution in teaching and research, founded in 1891 with a mission that emphasizes creating and sharing knowledge while fostering critical thinking and curiosity among students. Nestled in the heart of California's Silicon Valley between San Francisco and San Jose, Stanford’s expansive 8,180-acre campus hosts seven academic schools ranging from business and education to law and medicine. Known not only for academic excellence but also as an innovation hub, Stanford seamlessly blends theoretical learning with real-world application, preparing students for leadership roles and engaged global citizenship. The university's diverse community thrives in a culture that values expansive inquiry, fresh thinking, and freedom of thought, all integral to sustaining its position at the forefront of educational and societal advancements.

Residential & Dining Enterprises (R&DE) is the university’s largest auxiliary organization, supporting the campus's academic mission through comprehensive housing, dining, and hospitality services. With an annual operating budget of $400 million, R&DE manages a substantial portfolio of assets—over $3 billion in value and covering one-third of Stanford’s campus footprint. It provides accommodation for around 16,000 students and their families and serves nearly 8 million meals yearly through a network of 48 dining venues and 32 culinary enterprises. Beyond food and housing, R&DE offers executive services, conference operations, and guest lodging, managed by a talented team exceeding 1,200 staff members. Emphasizing a “Students First” philosophy, R&DE is dedicated to delivering outstanding service excellence, cultivating fairness, inclusivity, and a positive, thriving workplace culture.

The Senior Event & Hospitality Manager (Catering & VIP Events) position is a vital leadership role within Stanford Dining, Hospitality & Auxiliaries. Reporting to the Director of Stanford Catering, the incumbent is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and overall success of Stanford’s most prestigious and high-profile catering and hospitality events. This includes organizing the university's significant flagship events known as the ``Big 5'' and specialized events for senior leaders such as the President, Provost, Board of Trustees, and distinguished guests. These events require the utmost precision, discretion, and professionalism, reflecting Stanford’s standing and reputation.

The role demands comprehensive management skills to translate event goals into coordinated actions spanning culinary services, operational logistics, and customer experience. The Senior Event & Hospitality Manager works closely with various campus partners and internal teams to ensure flawless event execution, driving accountability, stakeholder alignment, and operational excellence. This leadership position not only oversees delivery quality but also manages event financials, monitors participant satisfaction, and continuously improves service processes. The role is essential and located onsite, requiring availability beyond typical work hours, including evenings and weekends. The estimated pay range is $80,000 to $100,000 per annum, though compensation will be influenced by candidate qualifications and market factors. Stanford offers an enriching work environment with exceptional career development opportunities, a caring culture, generous benefits, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, making it a premier employer in higher education and hospitality management sectors.