The Catering Coordinator – Independent Living is responsible for coordinating and executing catered events within the Independent Living community of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). This role supports the planning, setup, execution, and follow-up of resident events, private dining experiences, and community gatherings, ensuring each event reflects a high standard of hospitality and service excellence. This position works closely with the Catering Manager, culinary team, and front-of-house staff to ensure seamless event operations, accurate communication, and consistent delivery of elevated dining experiences tailored to Independent Living residents.
Essential Functions Catering & Event Coordination • Coordinate day-to-day execution of Independent Living catering events from planning through completion. • Serve as the primary operational contact for scheduled Independent Living events. • Assist with gathering event details, timelines, room setups, and service needs. • Communicate clearly with culinary and service teams regarding menus, timing, and guest expectations. • Ensure accuracy in event sheets, floor plans, and service instructions. • Provide on-site coordination during events to ensure smooth execution and guest satisfaction. Bar & Beverage Service Operations • Perform bartender duties for Independent Living catering events, including full bar and portable bar setup, service execution, and breakdown. • Coordinate and oversee bar operations to ensure timely, professional, and compliant beverage service during events. • Ensure proper stocking, organization, cleanliness, and presentation of all bar and portable bar. • Maintain compliance with all alcohol service policies, safety standards, and responsible beverage service practices. • Monitor bar inventory and communicate beverage supply needs or shortages to management. Event Setup Leadership & Staff Training • Direct, guide, and train staff assisting with event execution on proper room setups, banquet layouts, and portable bar setup procedures. • Provide hands-on instruction to team members regarding event presentation standards, service expectations, and operational procedures. • Supervise setup and breakdown activities to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to event specifications. • Assist in developing consistent setup standards for catering events and beverage service operations. Operational Support • Support setup and breakdown of catering events, including décor, tables, linens, and equipment. • Monitor inventory needs for Independent Living catering functions and report shortages or supply needs. • Ensure compliance with sanitation, food safety, and alcohol service standards. • Assist in maintaining accurate event records, billing details, and post-event documentation. • Support consistent adherence to departmental policies and service standards. Guest Experience & Service Excellence • Deliver a high level of hospitality and responsiveness to resident and guest needs. • Serve as a liaison between residents and the dining team for event-related questions or requests. • Ensure all Independent Living events reflect a welcoming, polished, and professional experience. • Address minor issues or concerns during events and escalate larger issues to management as needed. Team Collaboration • Work closely with the Catering Manager to ensure seamless execution of all events. • Communicate effectively with culinary staff and service teams regarding event expectations. • Participate in pre-event briefings and post-event reviews. • Support training and guidance of dining staff involved in Independent Living events.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY • No direct supervisory responsibilities. • May provide functional support or guidance to dining service staff during events.
