Job Title: Catering Manager

Status: EXEMPT

Reports to: Director of Sales

About The Abbey Inn & Spa

Perched above the Hudson River, The Abbey Inn & Spa is a boutique luxury destination offering unforgettable experiences rooted in thoughtful service, refined design, and historic charm. As a proud member of the Meyer Jabara Hotels portfolio, we are committed to creating meaningful guest experiences through empowered team members, operational excellence, and a people-first culture.

The Catering Manager plays a critical role in driving event revenue, orchestrating flawless execution, and delivering memorable social and corporate events that reflect the elevated standards of The Abbey Inn & Spa.

Position Summary:

The Catering Manager is responsible for selling, planning, and executing all catered events, including weddings, social celebrations, corporate meetings, and special functions. This leadership role manages the full lifecycle of events-from initial client inquiry through successful execution and post-event follow-up-while ensuring revenue goals, service standards, and guest expectations are exceeded.

The Catering Manager collaborates closely with Sales, Food & Beverage, Culinary, and Operations teams and is expected to model Meyer Jabara Hotels' J Quality Behaviors: Joy, Jump, Join by leading with positivity, accountability, and a hands-on, solution-oriented approach.

Sales & Event Management Responsibilities

• Sell and manage all catering business, including weddings, social events, corporate meetings, and special functions
• Respond promptly to catering inquiries and conduct client consultations, site tours, and tastings
• Prepare and negotiate proposals, contracts, and Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) with accuracy and attention to detail
• Serve as the primary point of contact for catering clients from booking through event completion
• Coordinate menu selection, pricing, timelines, and event logistics in partnership with Culinary and Operations
• Ensure all event details are clearly communicated to internal departments for seamless execution
• Attend and oversee assigned events to ensure service excellence, problem resolution, and guest satisfaction
• Collaborate with the Sales team to maximize revenue, upsell opportunities, and overall event profitability
• Maintain accurate records, forecasts, and revenue reporting within the sales system
• Ensure compliance with brand standards, food safety, and responsible alcohol service requirements

Leadership & Operational Responsibilities

• Partner with Food & Beverage and Banquet leadership to ensure staffing, setup, and service standards are met
• Participate in weekly sales, event, and operations meetings as required
• Actively support budget goals, cost controls, and labor efficiency
• Assist in developing catering menus, pricing strategies, and event offerings
• Represent The Abbey Inn & Spa professionally in all client and vendor interactions
• Support overall hotel initiatives and perform additional duties as business needs dictate

Experience & Education:

• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in catering sales, event management, or hotel food & beverage operations
• Prior experience managing weddings and high-end social events strongly preferred
• Proven ability to sell, plan, and execute multiple events simultaneously
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with hotel sales and catering systems preferred
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event needs

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to walk, stand, and move throughout the property for extended periods during events
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs (event materials, menus, décor items)
• Ability to work a varied schedule based on event demands
• Ability to remain calm and professional in high-pressure event environments

Benefits (Full-Time Employees) 

• Group Medical Plan 
• Dental Plan 
• 401(k) Plan 
• Voluntary Benefits, including:  
  • Life Insurance 
  • Critical Illness Insurance 
  • Accident Insurance 
• This position is eligible for incentive Bonus Plan based on sales performance and achievement of revenue goals