Assistant Catering Manager

Assistant Catering Manager - Dining Services

Department: Dining Services / Much Ado Catering

Location: Davidson, NC (On Campus)

Position Type: Full-Time, Hourly

Job Summary

Davidson College is seeking an organized, collaborative, and service-oriented Assistant Catering Manager to join our campus catering team. Operating under our signature brand, Much Ado Catering, this role is critical to the daily success of our front-of-house operations. The Assistant Catering Manager coordinates the logistical details and execution for a diverse portfolio of campus events, ranging from high-profile presidential dinners to large-scale student celebrations and smaller departmental functions.

The ideal candidate brings strong supervisory experience, exceptional communication skills,a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a positive attitude. Reporting directly to the Catering Manager, you will help lead a dedicated team to deliver seamless hospitality and maintain Davidson's high standards of service.

Key Responsibilities

Event Operations & Execution

• Supervise on-site event operations, including the complete setup, service execution, and breakdown of catered events across campus.
• Coordinate logistical elements such as equipment layout, physical assets, and venue timing, working closely with the Catering Chef and campus partners
• Act as the primary manager on duty during events, maintaining a calm, professional demeanor while troubleshooting and resolving operational issues on the fly.
• Oversee transport logistics and vehicle fleet ensuring the safe loading, delivery, and unloading of food and equipment using departmental vehicles.

Staff Leadership & Management

• Help manage the daily administration of the catering office, directly supporting the Catering Manager with essential tasks as assigned
• Create and manage weekly schedules for catering student workers, the Assistant Manager serves as the primary point of communication and contact for student workers
• Train, supervise, and mentor a diverse team of full-time catering staff, temporary labor, and student workers, ensuring strict adherence to hospitality standards and safety protocols.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Maintain accurate inventory counts for front-of-house assets, including specialized linens, serving equipment, china, and event decor.
• Enforce food safety and allergy compliance, ensuring service lines are clearly labeled and staff are well-trained on guest dietary restrictions.
• Audit compliance regarding local health regulations, campus safety protocols, and state laws.
• Coaching and correction to make sure all Much Ado staff are consistently following policy and procedure, and the Davidson College mission

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 2+ years of progressive supervisory experience in high-volume catering, corporate hospitality, hotel banquets, or higher-education food service operations.
• Skills: Strong administrative competency, including experience managing staff schedules, ordering supplies, and utilizing event booking software (e.g., Catertrax or Jamix).
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate professionally with student workers, culinary teams, and high-level college executives alike.
• Certifications: Active ServSafe Manager Certification, or the ability to obtain it within 30 days of hire.
• License: Valid state-issued driver's license required to safely operate departmental vehicles.
• Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Food Service Management, or a related field (equivalent hands-on professional leadership experience will be considered).

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Mobility: Ability to stand, walk, and remain on your feet for extended shifts of 8+ hours per day, up to 12 hours during busy event cycles.
• Strength: Ability to safely lift, push, pull, and carry catering equipment, heavy trays, and event supplies weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Environment: Ability to work comfortably outdoors in various weather conditions and temperatures

Benefits & Perks

Davidson College offers a highly competitive benefits package for full-time associates, including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plan designs.
• Generous retirement benefits with an institutional employer match.
• Paid time off, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Free shift meals at on campus dining hall
• Access to athletic tickets, campus facilities, and institutional discounts.

Information about how to submit an application can be found at https://employment.davidson.edu