Associate Director of Events and Catering

Position Summary

The Culinary Service Department at the College of Saint Benedict invite applications for a full-time (1.0 FTE), benefit eligible position of Associate Director of Events and Catering.

$1,000 sign-on bonus valid through December 31, 2024. *Terms applied to sign-on bonus can be provided by hiring manager.   

The Associate Director of Events and Catering is responsible for overseeing all departmental operations, including administration, sales and marketing, campus and external relations, onsite event management, event planning, and budget oversight. This position provides strategic leadership to achieve departmental goals and priorities, guiding policy development and fostering continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include developing and executing strategies to enhance campus experiences, managing a team, ensuring high-quality service, and maintaining compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards.

Institutional Inclusion Visioning Statement
The College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John’s University (SJU) believe that an excellent liberal arts education requires an understanding and appreciation of cultural difference and that everyone deserves to feel safe and morally valued. To that end, we will challenge our own practices and systems. Our commitment to an inclusive environment will be incorporated into all decision-making processes. We dedicate ourselves to cultivating an equitable, inclusive community founded on respect for all persons.

CSB and SJU offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits program (click the benefits tab above the position summary section to view more information). For further information regarding our institutions, visit CSBSJU.

Responsibilities

Events and Catering Operations (60%)

• Under the guidance of the Director of Culinary Services, oversee all financial operations for the Events and Catering department, including budget projections, revenue and expense tracking, and labor cost management, with the goal of positioning the department as a profitable center for the institution.
• Collaborate with internal and external clients to plan comprehensive event details, including catering, room setup, and technology needs, providing a “one-stop shop” experience.
• Provide on-site event support, including acting as the manager on duty, overseeing catering services, assisting clients, managing audio-visual requirements, and ensuring consistent event supervision.
• Manage and coordinate the booking and rental of campus venues, including creating bid proposals and fostering strong client relationships to drive new and repeat business.
• Complete contract and facility agreements with external customers while ensuring liability and insurance needs are met.
• Handle financial processes including generating customer invoices, managing accounts receivable, and submitting monthly reports to the Business Office, which includes tracking past-due invoices, recording deposits/payments, and managing sales tax documentation.   
• Lead department marketing efforts, including requests for marketing materials, social media presence, website updates, advertising, and engagement in local chamber of commerce activities.
• Regularly update and oversee pricing for event facilities, summer housing, and catering services.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with campus departments, constituents, and external stakeholders through attendance at meetings and ongoing communication.
• Coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure catering quality and presentation meet high standards for all events.

Supervisory Responsibilities (20%)

• Lead the recruitment, training, and supervision of the Events and Catering Management Team, providing support and filling in as needed to ensure seamless event execution and strong leadership.
• Establish and uphold service standards and policies for the Events and Catering team, setting clear expectations for quality and consistency.
• Ensure the safe service of food and beverages by adhering to established food code.
• Cultivate a positive and professional work environment that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.
• Provide direction and support to the summer housing office staff, ensuring alignment with departmental goals and service standards.

Perform other duties as assigned, including but not limited to the following (20%)

• Regular use and oversight of the EMS Scheduling Software and Star Rez Housing Software 
• Collaborate with Saint John’s University to coordinate and share facilities, optimizing space usage to meet customer needs.
• Manage campus housing logistics, including loft and employee apartment rentals, as well as summer accommodations for event guests.
• Oversee and regularly utilize EMS Scheduling Software and StarRez Housing Software.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or the completion Hospitality or Culinary Management program with three years event planning/management experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.    
• Two or more years supervisory or management experience; experience in food, beverage (including alcohol service), facilities, and housing operations preferred.
• Professional and effective communication skills including oral, written, and interpersonal skills to maintain cooperative and effective working relationships.
• Strong communication skills, including verbal, written, and interpersonal abilities, to foster collaborative and effective working relationships.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software, with proven ability to use technology effectively in event planning and management; experience with event planning software preferred.
• Excellent customer service skills, with demonstrated leadership abilities and effective problem-solving skills.
• Strong multitasking skills with a high attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated time management skills to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Flexibility and adaptability to respond to changing event requirements and client needs.
• Knowledge and experience in budgeting, financial management, and cost control within event planning.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evening and weekend event coverage as required. 

Physical Requirements:

• Requires mobility to navigate various campus facilities.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, independently or with assistance.
• Capacity to tolerate varying noise levels and temperature changes, and to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Proficiency in safely and efficiently operating college vehicles; valid driver’s license required, along with successful completion of college safety training programs, including defensive driving, within one month of hire.   

To Apply

Applications are accepted online by clicking on "Apply.” Candidates are asked to complete the application form and submit a letter of application and resume.
 
If you require an accommodation to participate in The College of Saint Benedict hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (320) 363-5500 or [email protected].
 
It is the policy of CSB to conduct a pre-employment background check.  An offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check. CSB also utilizes E-Verify as part of its onboarding process to confirm work authorization.
 
 The College of Saint Benedict is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.