Manager of Catering Operations

SSA Group is Science Center is looking for a talented Manager of Catering Operations to join our team!

All applications should be submitted within 7 days following posting of the job; applications will be prioritized based upon time submitted and may not be reviewed beyond this time. The employer reserves the right to shorten or expand this timeframe as necessary to the job scope.

Manager, Catering Operations

Onsite

Catering & Events

(Sr.) Director, Catering Operations / General Manager / Assistant General Manager

Individual Contributor

0

$650,000+

SSA Group works with zoos, aquariums, museums, and other cultural attractions on integrating dining, retail, admissions and more. We increase revenue opportunities for partners across the United States. With 50 years in the business, SSA has refined the basics while pioneering better ways forward. With pillars of focus like sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, SSA is transforming the cultural attraction industry.

SSA was built by families, for families, with a family’s sense of love and dedication. We don’t just rely on the best practices in our industry, we customize best practices for each partner to set the bar higher and higher, always. We do all we can to further the mission of our partners because their guests and the communities they serve deserve it.

The Manager, Catering Operations is responsible for supporting the Event/Catering Sales and Culinary teams by leading the catering logistics planning, coordination, execution, and quality control of events. This role involves advanced knowledge of client relationships, event logistics, and delivering customer satisfaction. This position is ultimately responsible for the delivery of seamless and memorable events.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.
• Advanced leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
• Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Demonstrates financial management, analytical, and planning skills.
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast‑paced environment.
• Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35 lb) as necessary, including lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
• (Outdoor Venues Only) Must be comfortable working in an outdoor environment, including exposure to the elements.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

• Minimum 4 years catering operations and/or event planning management in off‑site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue preferred.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience is required for this position; however, candidates with 6 or more years of experience will be given stronger consideration.
• Working knowledge of Tripleseat is a plus.
• All education backgrounds eligible, must be 18 or older.

• Develop and implement detailed plans for catering events, including event orders, pull sheets, execution timelines, staffing schedules, visual appeal and logistics layouts.
• Coordinate with sales representatives to understand event requirements and ensure all details are accurately captured and executed.
• Oversee the setup, execution, and breakdown of events, ensuring all aspects run smoothly and efficiently.
• Ensure all equipment, supplies, and materials are available and in good working condition for events.
• Walk event spaces with Sales Team before events to ensure everything is in working order and address any issues promptly.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with the Sales Team, Culinary Team, and other departments involved in events, developing and implementing new strategies and procedures where necessary to ensure events are executed flawlessly. Including, but not limited to:
• Attend weekly BEO meetings to review all upcoming events, addressing…