Director of Catering - Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center

Job Listing: Director of Catering

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Location: We are seeking an experienced Director of Catering for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.

The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD) is one of the largest convention centers in the nation. Every year it welcomes over a million visitors attending major national and international conventions, meetings, concerts, athletic competitions, auto shows, and more.

Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, the KBHCCD has been and continues to be a fixture in the Dallas skyline offering 1 million square feet of exhibit space, three ballrooms, 88 meeting rooms, 1,750-seat theater, and a 9,816-seat arena. The award-winning facility is connected to a 1,001-room hotel via skybridge and is adjacent to two Vertiport landing pads.

Principal Function:

The Director of Catering position is found within larger Sodexo Live! venues, typically Tier 1 Convention Centers and Sports & Entertainment arenas, with a high volume of and significant revenue stream from catered functions and events.

The Director of Catering will typically manage a team of one or more Catering Sales Managers and or/Coordinators. They are responsible for creating unique dining experiences by directing, selling, up-selling and actively participating in the planning and production of catered functions. Working closely with clients, as well as with the banquets, culinary, beverage and operations staff, they are responsible for ensuring that events are coordinated and executed smoothly and in accordance with client expectations and specifications.

The Director of Catering will focus on the development, implementation and measurement of the revenue objectives contained within the unit's annual marketing plan. They will direct and manage the Catering Sales team and all sales activities to meet revenue objectives and attain the top line financial forecast. This includes developing sales with existing business (forecasted group/local business) and executing strategies to develop new business.

The Director of Catering will support the planning of and preparation for events according to anticipated attendance, and will provide hands-on management and oversight in the areas of service and F&B operations during events.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Maximize Sodexo Live!'s catering revenue through creative sales techniques and customer focus.
• Communicate and promote Sodexo Live!'s culture and values; Provide hands-on leadership and direction to Catering Sales staff.
• Contribute to the efficient operation of assigned unit by partnering with operations in providing support, information, insight, analysis and recommendations in matters pertaining guest service, menu development, creative event planning, revenue generation and other functions pertaining to Catering Sales.
• Participate in special projects related to the development and implementation of organizational, HR and general business strategies.
• Contribute to goal of making Sodexo Live! #1 in Event Hospitality and the #1 Employer of Choice through personal commitment and leading by example.

Qualifications/Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in business, hotel/restaurant management or a related field, and/or appropriate combination of education and experience to support on the job effectiveness.
• 5-7 years of catering sales experience, with at least 3-5 years in a senior management role.
• Prior experience in a similar venue with more than $10M in food and beverage sales.
• Demonstrated financial acumen with proven track record for generating revenue growth.
• P&L accountability and/or contract-managed servi