Director of Events - Catering

Description

Saz’s Hospitality Group is seeking a Director of Events to lead our Catering operations team, working out of our Walkers Point office in Milwaukee, WI. This is a full-time, salaried position with a competitive wage based on experience, as well as bonus opportunities. As an EIGHT-time recipient of the Top Workplace Award we are proud to offer the following benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance - including access to telehealth
• Paid time off
• 401k retirement plan with company match
• Restaurant and catering discounts
• Discount tickets to Marcus Performing Arts Center shows
• Opportunities for career advancement

At Saz’s Hospitality Group, we believe every event is an opportunity to create over-the-top amazing experiences. The Director of Events plays a key leadership role in bringing this mission to life by driving operational excellence, inspiring a hospitality-first culture, and ensures each catered event delivers unmatched guest satisfaction.  The position leads our catering team from the front - mentoring managers, optimizing service workflows, and maintaining a strong presence on the event site to ensure every detail reflects Saz’s quality and passion to deliver “The Finest” experiences. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a hospitality heart and sharp operational mind.  

Key Responsibilities of the Director of Events

Hospitality-Driven Leadership:

• Lead by example while promoting Saz’s vision for hospitality and service values across all catering events
• Provide clear direction, motivation and support to the catering leadership team, service staff and event teams
• Oversee day-to-day event operations, ensuring seamless communication and execution between catering teams
• Cultivate a guest-first mindset, ensuring each team member understands their role in delivering memorable events
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and excellence in customer service

Team Development & Culture:

• Assist the HR team in sourcing, hiring, and retaining top talent with a passion for events
• Conduct performance check-ins and annual reviews for all catering managers and supervisors, providing clear feedback and growth opportunities
• Work closely with the Training Manager to evaluate onboarding, service standard training, and leadership development and growth for the entire team

Operational Excellence:

• Partner with the Director of Operations to establish and maintain best practices for catering efficiency and quality
• Maintain a strong and on-site presence during events to monitor event execution, champion service quality, and ensure high standards
• Collaborate with event managers to identify and resolve operational challenges, continuously improving efficiency and consistency

Client Experience & Service Assurance:

• Build strong relationships with clients and key stakeholders by ensuring seamless communication and flawless event execution
• Guarantee that every touchpoint reflects Saz’s commitment to quality, hospitality, and guest satisfaction
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations at all catered events

Requirements

• 5+ years in hospitality or catering operations, with a proven ability to manage large teams and drive staff engagement
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Strong leadership and communication skills to foster positive relationships with both new and established staff
• Passion for guest experience and ability to translate that passion into operational success
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally to attend client meetings, visit sites, etc.
• Proficiency in using various industry platforms for scheduling, event management, and communication 
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedules

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• 5 years hospitality management with an emphasis on catering operations  

Physical Requirements:

• Stand, walk or sit up to 12 hours at a time
• Lift up to 50 lbs. to chest level

Saz’s State House opened in 1976, and we’ve grown for over 49 years. Today, Saz’s Hospitality Group offers amazing catering, festivals, and retail throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. True to our roots, we focus on building a team of caring and committed individuals who believe in stellar service to our gu