Catering Manager - DUKE University

Job Overview

Job Details:
Level – Experienced
Location – Duke University – Durham, NC 27708
Position Type – Full Time
Education Level – Not Specified
Salary Range – $18.00 – $20.00 hourly

Travel Percentage – None
Job Shift – Any

The primary responsibility will include event execution, scheduling, developing & leading the team. This role will involve leading the front‑of‑house team, ensuring exceptional client experiences, and managing the coordination of service delivery.

The ideal candidate will bring a passion for hospitality and a proven ability to execute events with efficiency and flair.

• Day‑to‑day operations of the catering program
• Scheduling staff and labor management
• Recruiting and retention – training and managing staff to provide high‑quality service
• Bar operations in cooperation with the beverage manager
• Meeting with clients to understand and document their catering needs and preferences
• Organizing and supervising the work of the catering team to ensure food is served in a timely manner
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
• Controlling budgets and minimizing expenditure by efficiently managing resources
• Handling customer inquiries and complaints professionally and promptly
• Conducting regular inventory checks, developing par lists and communicating supply needs
• Planning and executing marketing strategies to promote the catering business
• Supporting the general manager and catering director in cost management and budget analysis
• Performing other related duties as needed

• Proven track record managing both indoor and outdoor catering events for up to 350 guests, ensuring seamless service delivery in various environments
• Strong background in creating and curating diverse, high‑quality menus tailored to client preferences and event themes
• Ability to lead and manage catering teams, ensuring smooth coordination of staff and resources during events
• Highly organized with a keen eye for detail, capable of overseeing all aspects of catering logistics, from set‑up to execution
• Comfortable working in dynamic, fast‑paced environments, with the ability to adapt to changing conditions and resolve issues quickly and efficiently
• Deliver high quality food service
• Flexible with schedule and availability (catering may be weekends, early mornings, late nights…)
• Achieve company and client financial targets and goals
• Develop and maintain client and customer relationships
• Deliver strategic plans
• Hold team members accountable for all expectations using an HR‑guided team coaching process
• Communicate effectively with all crew members and team members
• Foster a positive environment, with a measured temperament

• Business Acumen – Demonstrate comprehension of the job, including policies, practices, and relationships. Possess the expertise and skill levels required of the job and perform with quality.
• Dedication – Dependable, reliable and follows through on projects from inception to completion. Willing to put in as much time as necessary to complete tasks. Demonstrate a win‑win attitude: “see it, own it, solve it.”
• Ethics and Integrity – Acts with integrity, honesty and knowledge that promote the company’s culture, values and beliefs while maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct.
• Safety & Security – Observe safety and security standards. Use equipment and materials properly. Comply with safety standards and personal protective equipment requirements. Report potential unsafe conditions or practices to appropriate person immediately. Promote restaurant safety, cleanliness and security compliance at all times.
• Teamwork – Cooperate and be willing to work as a team player to achieve goals and tasks accurately, efficiently and timely.
• Communication…