Catering & Special Events Manager

Description

Department: Catering                                                                                                  FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Title: Catering & Special Events Manager 

Reports To: Director of Catering 

General Summary

Since our founding in 1908, Houston Country Club has upheld a legacy of excellence in hospitality, service, and community. Guided by our mission to graciously serve our Members, we are equally committed to fostering a workplace where team members feel supported, valued, and inspired to excel. As a distinguished Platinum Club of America serving more than 1,250 member families and hosting over 1,100 events annually.

The Catering & Special Events Manager plays an integral role in planning, coordinating, and executing exceptional members and guest events. This position works closely with members, guests, vendors, and internal departments to deliver events with professionalism, attention to detail, and the high standards that define the Club experience. The Catering & Special Events Manager reports directly to the Director of Catering.

Key Responsibilities

•  Coordinate and manage business, social, and member events hosted at the Club from initial inquiry through event completion.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for members and guests regarding catering and special event inquiries, ensuring timely communication and follow-up. 
• Respond promptly and professionally to all catering and event inquiries
• Monitor and follow up on all operational deliverables to ensure timely completion, adherence to deadlines, and consistent quality standards
• Prepare, organize, and distribute banquet event orders and pipeline on a weekly basis. 
• Act as liaison between the Catering Office and Club departments including golf, tennis, fitness, pool, kitchen, and other operational areas to ensure seamless event execution. 
• Coordinate with outside vendors and service providers to support event needs and logistics. 
• Ensure all Vendors comply with established Vendor Policies, safety standards, and operational requirements
• Assist in developing promotional and marketing materials for Club events and member programming. 
• Support the achievement of catering revenue goals through proactive event sales and relationship-building with members.
• Support invoice coding, event reconciliation, and accurate completion of administrative tasks associated with assigned events.
• Maintain high service standards and ensure all events reflect the Club’s commitment to excellence. 
• Assist with on-site event oversight to ensure successful execution and member satisfaction.

Requirements

Education, Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in catering, special events, weddings, hospitality, hotel event planning, or a related field required. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent industry experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Experience in private clubs, hospitality, or luxury service environments preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a polished and professional demeanor.
• Sales-oriented mindset with ability to build relationships and identify opportunities to enhance member engagement.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Strong service mindset with passion for hospitality, food, and beverage operations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Excel and Word; familiarity with design and event software such as Canva, Social Tables, or similar programs preferred.

Other Requirements

• Self-motivated, dependable, and proactive in approach to work.
• Outgoing personality with strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multiple departments across the Club.
• Sense of urgency and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to adjust priorities based on Club and event needs.

Special Requirements

• Availability to work weekdays and weekends, including holidays, with a flexible schedule based on business needs and special events.
• Ability to attend and oversee events outside regular business hours when necessary.
• Familiarity with golf, tennis, and other private club operations is considered a plus.

Dress Code

• Professional business attire is required while on duty, consistent with Houston Country Club standards.
• Attire should reflect a polished, hospitality-focused image appropriate for member interaction and event oversight.
• Adhere to event-specific dress requirements and maintain a professional appearance appropriate for each event.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in both office and club event environments, including indoor and outdoor venues.
• Frequent interaction with members, guests, employees, and vendors in a hospitality setting.
• Position requires flexibility in schedule based on event calendar, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and deadlines, particularly during peak event periods.

Physical Functions and Methods

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods during meetings and event oversight.
• Ability to move throughout Club facilities, including banquet spaces, dining areas, and outdoor venues.
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to 20 pounds, such as event materials, signage, or office supplies.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to operate office equipment including computer, telephone, and printer.
• Ability to communicate clearly in person, by telephone, and through written correspondence.