Director of Catering

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Director of Catering in Houston, TX. This role is responsible for the strategic leadership, sales performance, and flawless execution of all catering and banquet operations within the hotel. This role drives catering revenue through proactive sales efforts, strong client relationships, and collaboration with culinary and operations teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences. The Director of Catering oversees the catering sales team, manages large-scale social and corporate events, and ensures financial goals and service standards are consistently achieved.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Revenue Leadership

• Develop and execute catering sales strategies to achieve and exceed revenue, profit, and market share goals
• Lead all catering sales efforts for social, corporate, group, and wedding events
• Manage forecasting, budgeting, and pace reports; analyze performance and adjust strategies accordingly
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and concessions while protecting hotel profitability
• Maintain strong relationships with repeat clients, meeting planners, wedding planners, and key accounts

Event Planning & Execution

• Oversee the planning and execution of all catered events, from initial inquiry through post-event follow-up
• Partner closely with Culinary, Banquets, Conference Services, and AV teams to ensure seamless event delivery
• Ensure all event details are clearly communicated through BEOs and pre-event meetings
• Conduct site inspections, tastings, and client walk-throughs as needed
• Resolve guest concerns quickly and professionally to maintain high satisfaction levels

Leadership & Team Development

• Recruit, train, coach, and manage the catering sales team
• Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular evaluations, and provide ongoing development
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and service excellence
• Partner with Banquet Operations leadership to ensure staffing and service alignment

Financial & Administrative Management

• Prepare annual catering budgets and monthly forecasts
• Monitor labor, food, beverage, and operating costs to maximize profitability
• Ensure accurate billing, deposits, and payment processing
• Maintain compliance with brand standards, hotel policies, and local regulations

Brand, Marketing & Relationships

• Represent the hotel at networking events, bridal shows, and industry functions
• Collaborate with Marketing to promote catering offerings and seasonal packages
• Maintain strong partnerships with preferred vendors and event professionals
• Ensure brand standards and service culture are reflected in all events

Required Experience & Qualifications

The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership and catering expertise within a private club, country club, or luxury hospitality environment, with a strong understanding of member expectations and relationship-driven service.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive catering and events leadership, preferably within a country club, private club, resort, or upscale hotel
• Demonstrated experience managing member-focused events, including weddings, golf tournaments, galas, social functions, and corporate outings
• Proven ability to collaborate closely with Club Management, Golf Operations, Culinary, and Membership Teams
• Strong background in high-volume banquet and a la carte service, with attention to customization and personalization
• Experience overseeing event sales, forecasting, and budgeting, with accountability for revenue growth and cost control
• Hands-on leadership style with success in training, scheduling, and motivating catering and banquet teams

Key Competencies

• Deep understanding of private club culture, etiquette, and long-term member relationships
• Expertise in event planning, execution, and post-event follow-up
• Strong communication and sales skills, including proposal development and contract negotiation
• Ability to manage multiple events simultaneously while maintaining exceptional service standards
• Knowledge of food & beverage trends, wine and spirits, and elevated service presentation