Catering Operations Manager | Etihad Park

The Role

Catering Operations Manager

LOCATION: Etihad Park | Willets Point, Queens, NY

About the Role

The Catering Operations Manager plays a critical role in orchestrating the seamless delivery of food & beverages for the premium and event space in Etihad Park, NYC’s first-ever soccer-specific stadium located at Willet’s Point in Queens. This role acts as the main point of contact for the client on-site and leads the catering staff before, during, and after the event. The Catering manager plays a critical role in orchestrating the seamless delivery of food & beverages to Etihad Park.

What You’ll Do (Key Responsibilities & Outcomes)

• Create, review, and revise the Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) with the Executive Chef, GM and F&B leadership prior to each event to confirm menu details, timing, special requests, and staffing needs.
• Conduct pre-event inspections of function space to ensure cleanliness, proper setup, and ambiance.
• Work with the client on a frequent basis to confirm the itinerary and review any last-minute adjustments if applicable.
• Lead the pre-shift lineup: assign tasks, inspect uniforms, review menu details, and communicate service expectations.
• Supervise catering servers throughout the event, ensuring high-quality service delivery.
• Anticipate guest needs, promptly respond to requests, and maintain a visible presence during events.
• Monitor food presentation, garnishes, and adherence to event specifications.
• Enforce responsible alcohol service in accordance with company policies.
• Address guest concerns or service issues promptly and professionally.
• Complete event closing duties, including detailing operations and client feedback.
• Ensure staff complete all side-work and closing responsibilities before signing out.
• Provide feedback on staff performance and communicate any disciplinary concerns to the Senior Director of Hospitality.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in both front-of-house and back-of-house areas during events.
• Foster a positive and productive work environment that supports teamwork and excellent service.
• Notify management when supplies (e.g., condiments, beverages) are running low if applicable.
• Practice safe work habits and complete company and venue safety and general compliance training.
• Maintain a pleasant and collaborative attitude towards customers, co-workers, and management.
• Adheres to the Legends Global and venue company policies.
• Complete other duties assigned by management.

What You Bring (Qualifications & Experience)

• Expertise in financial analysis and planning, budgeting, and marketing.
• Working knowledge of local and regional markets, venue operations, and special events industries.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to effectively evaluate risks and liabilities of special events and stadium rentals.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in spreadsheet, database, and word processing programs.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, culinary, or business preferred
• 2-5 years of hands-on food service, banquet service, or premium food arena preferred
• Hands on experience working closely with team ownership, high end clientele
• Understanding responsible alcohol service regulations and best practices.
• Team player with the ability to work as an individual contributor when required.

Work Environment & Travel

• This role is based on site at Etihad Park in Queens, NY
• Flexibility to work extended hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on stadium events, matches, and concert schedules is required
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to lift/move/maneuver at least 30-50 lbs.
• Constant standing, walking, bending, reaching and repetitive motions.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions.

Additional information

At Legends Global, our people power every success. You’ll work alongside exceptional talent, learn from world-leading experts, and contribute to projects that set the standard across sports, entertainment, hospitality, and live experiences. If you’re driven to operate at the highest level, build with purpose, and help partners win on the biggest stages, you’ll thrive here.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $75,000 per year commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. Legends Global offers a competitive total rewards package.

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