Banquet Captain- Cornell Catering

As a division of Cornell Dining, Cornell Catering is the preferred catering service for Cornell University events and is uniquely qualified to serve the entire Cornell community and beyond. We are proud to work for Cornell and place a strong emphasis on Cornell Pride; our focus on students is one of the many concepts that differentiate Cornell Catering from other caterers. With its team of experienced professional staff, Cornell Catering is a full-service caterer that provides incredible food and beverages to guests at formal banquets for thousands, elegant weddings for hundreds, or intimate dinners for a few. Over the past thirty-five years, Cornell Catering has worked with clients to create customized events that meet specific objectives and budgets.

The Banquet Captain, oversees the basic operational details of catered events, on and off-campus for events ranging from 5-150 guests.  Specifically, this includes the completion of pre-planning checklists, the supervision of event set-up and breakdown, on-site client relations and necessary event closing paperwork. These responsibilities are done with limited supervisor oversight.

Overall duties will likely include:

• Develop and maintain client relationships with repeat customers. Must be able to work autonomously to manage the planning of certain aspects of off-premise catered events, including but not limited to design, layout, décor, print materials, flowers, and linen selections.
• Responsible for the supervision of catering staff (up to 10 staff members at a time) during the event and breakdown. Staff includes student, temporary casual, and occasionally other union staff members. Coordinate with other union staff members including cooks, material handlers, and at times will provide direction and guidance needed for execution of events to these staff members.
• Handles necessary on-site client relations, which can often be sensitive and complex. Events may at times involve high-level university officials, prominent alumni, and trustees.  Position works closely with others in Campus Life and Cornell Dining work groups.
• May be responsible for the cold food preparations for buffets in upscale and casual gatherings including, but not limited to plattering of prepared foods or wrapping/packaging of buffet platters.
• Ensure that sanitary and HACCP procedures are maintained in assigned areas.  Maintain NY State Health codes including, but not limited to temperatures, safe handling procedures and proper sanitary restraints and uniforms.

May, at times, be required to drive a delivery vehicle (no special Driver's License classification required, non-Commercial Motor Vehicles only).

This position has significant physical demands, and at times are required to assist with moving heavy equipment.  Must be able to lift 50lbs., position spends many hours at a time standing and walking. 

Position will have varied hours and have changing responsibilities depending on business

Required Qualifications:

High School Diploma or equivalent and one - two year experience in the food service or catering environment.

Ability to understand and comply with appropriate HR practice, policy, procedures and legal requirements. Strong communications skills, both written and verbal. Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud, and other software as needed. Ability to learn new systems quickly. Must be viewed by the customers and staff as knowledgeable and highly skilled. Ability to be a trusted and respected ally to staff to bring forward and discuss problems. Must possess initiative, and have the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team. Requires a high level of independence, creative problem solving and the ability to persuade others to collaborate. Ability to grow, nurture and develop both a positive workforce of catering staff and ability to strengthen community relationships is critical. Must be able to respond quickly and effectively to multiple priorities and situations with a high level of initiative. Must be highly adaptable and flexible and work well in a constantly changing environment. Must have effective decision-making and negotiating skills. Must be able to lift and carry weight up to 50lbs. Position spends many hours at a time standing and walking.

Valid NY state driver's license required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Food safety course certification is desirable. TIPPS or similar program certification is desirable. Previous experience with Event Management software, and FSS systems are preferred.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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