Food & Beverage Manager Position Available In Knox, Tennessee

Food & Beverage Manager Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation Knoxville, TN Job Details Full-time From $49,000 a year 19 hours ago Benefits Paid training Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Paid time off Vision insurance 401(k) matching Flexible schedule Qualifications Hospitality Food service management experience (3-5 years) Business Management Vendor selection Management Event catering coordination 5 years Computer literacy Writing skills Facilities management Food and beverage category management Mid-level Microsoft Office 3 years High school diploma or GED Supervising experience Bar Bachelor’s degree Food and beverage industry expertise Bar management Vendor relationship management POS Food industry Computer skills Beverage budget management Associate’s degree Food safety Restaurant experience Food service management Hospitality management Full Job Description Join Our Team as the Food & Beverage Manager at Tennessee Theatre! Join the heartbeat of Knoxville’s iconic Tennessee Theatre! We’re looking for a dynamic, detail-driven Food and Beverage Manager to elevate guest experiences and lead exceptional service across our historic venue. If you’re passionate about hospitality, thrive in fast-paced environments, and want to be part of something truly special—apply today (and upload your cover letter) and help shape unforgettable moments at the Theatre!

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting directly to the Sr. Director of Event Services, the Food and Beverage Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food and beverage operations at the Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation (HTTF), a nonprofit organization including the facility at 612 Gay Street. The individual in this role must be a highly detail-oriented and technologically adept self-starter to ensure completion of essential tasks. The Food and Beverage Manager plays a pivotal role in delivering exceptional service, upholding high-quality standards, managing staff, and driving profitability. This position requires close collaboration with Theatre staff, external vendors, caterers, and suppliers to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for audience members, performers, and guests. This position is full-time and non-exempt, eligible for overtime (time plus half) with supervisor’s approval.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Public Event Concessions Oversee, coordinate, and manage food and beverage services (including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and pre-packaged food) across two to five service locations, utilizing a team of 10 to 16 part-time bartenders, during a minimum of 125 to 150 events annually, mostly pre-show and intermission service of beverages and light snacks. Establish and implement comprehensive standards and procedures to ensure efficient, compliant operations by bartending staff, encompassing event setup, service execution, and breakdown/closeout processes. Develop and curate food and beverage menu offerings, including specialty or themed cocktails, to optimize profitability, enhance service efficiency, and provide a diverse selection aligned with the Theatre’s commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience. Design an elevated beverage experience for the private donor lounge, ensuring alignment with existing physical space, available equipment, and budgetary requirements. Evaluate and implement Point of Sale (POS) systems tailored to the Theatre’s unique needs, facilitating seamless, efficient transactions for both staff and audiences. Special Event Food & Beverage Collaborating with other Theatre departments, coordinate and manage beverage and food service for all private, education/outreach, community, or small-group functions in either the Theatre or 612 building spaces, such as pre

• or post-show cocktail hours, stand-alone receptions, buffet or seated meals, wine or liquor tastings, board lunches, staff meeting snacks, etc. (25
• 40 times per year) Select, oversee, and evaluate external caterers which provide on-site dining for special events, ensuring a high level of excellence and compliance with all health & safety regulations.

Utilize a work-order system and/or the Theatre calendar to centralize and share details as needed with other departments. Backstage Food & Beverage Collaborating with Event Managers, coordinate all F&B service required by touring artists’ contract riders and other backstage F&B needs, including but not limited to: Booking and overseeing external caterers sufficiently trained and well-versed in specifics of touring-show catering, ensuring adequate room prep, prompt arrival and set-up, seamless and efficient service of one to three full meals serving 10

• 30 on show day, and strike and clean-up by external caterer. (35
• 40 times per year) Coordinating external catering for crew and stagehand meals and snacks (serving 50
• 100) during daytime call breaks or late night/overnight load-out periods, as required by union rules. (4
• 6 times per year) Assist Runners (if needed) on meal buyouts/deliveries, bus stock, snack trays, etc.

Ensure sufficient stocking of water coolers at stage level as required by riders. Operational Management Develop and manage a comprehensive inventory system, utilizing software (or other tracking methods) and limited storage options, keeping all recurring F&B menu items and related supplies organized, fresh, and secure. Develop beneficial relationships with beer and liquor distributors and other F&B sales reps, ensuring high-value menu items and selections that evolve with industry trends. Oversee the F&B section of Theatre annual budget, monitoring expenses and maximizing revenues. Ensure that all required local and state permits, licenses and certifications remain current, compliant, and properly displayed, including but not limited to liquor and beer permits, ABC licenses, and public health inspections. Monitor condition and operation of all F&B equipment, such as coolers/refrigerators, soda and liquor dispensing systems, dishwashers, sinks, floor drains, and cabinetry/service areas. Coordinate with Theatre Facilities department on equipment maintenance and repair or to schedule replacement of outdated/faulty items. Staff Supervision & Customer Service Recruit, train, and supervise one or more head bartenders (part-time) who will serve as on-site leaders to the pool of part-time bartending staff during all Theatre events. Coordinate with Audience Services to develop schedules to ensure adequate bartender staffing during events. Communicate and enforce relevant venue policies for external catering companies. Ensure outstanding service at every patron interaction. Address customer, vendor, and partner inquiries and complaints promptly and professionally.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Hospitality or Food Business Management, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred). HS diploma or equivalent required. Sommelier training a plus. Minimum of 5 years of experience in food and beverage operations, preferably in a high-volume, fast-paced professional setting, such as a full-service hotel, fine dining, convention center, or large private event or entertainment venue. (

NOTE:

Bar Management experience alone does not qualify.) Minimum 3 years of experience supervising diverse and expertly trained teams of hospitality staff (floor and kitchen), maintaining exceptional levels of customer service training and fostering a low-turnover workforce. Minimum 3 years of direct experience in hospitality management or restaurant operations, specifically in financial management, POS systems, inventory control, budgeting/cost control, and detailed reporting. Valid Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Menu Planning & Development

• Collaborate with Theatre staff to design menus that cater to event themes, audience preferences, and seasonal trends. Event Catering & Execution
• Oversee the procurement and coordination of external catering services for all Theatre/612 functions, ensuring exceptional food preparation, presentation, and logistical support tailored to each event’s unique requirements. Inventory & Cost Control
• Manage concession and other food stock levels, supplier relationships, and cost-control measures to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. Proficiency in POS systems and reporting. Compliance with Health & Safety Regulations
• Ensure food safety standards, hygiene protocols, and regulatory compliance through regular inspections and staff training. Staff Management & Training
• Recruit, train, and supervise bartender staff to maintain high-quality service standards. Customer Service & Feedback Handling
• Address guest concerns, resolve complaints, and continuously improve food offerings based on feedback.

Computer Skills:

Exceptional computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications.

Teamwork :

Demonstrates a strong commitment to teamwork, consistently working toward building and supporting the team’s success and positive communication.

Stress Management :

Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment utilizing creative problem solving and adaptability.

COMPETENCIES

Decision Making & Judgment :

Makes timely, informed decisions that consider the facts, goals, constraints, and risks.

Business Alignment:

Aligns the department priorities and performance with the rest of the organization.

Fiscal Accountability :

Follows fiscal guidelines, regulations, principles, and standards when committing fiscal resources or processing financial transactions.

Planning & Organizing :

Coordinates ideas and resources to achieve goals.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must have sufficient mobility to perform assigned tasks including constant and repetitive reaching, bending, stooping, wiping, pushing, and pulling for extended periods of time. Ability to stand for extended periods. Capability to lift and carry heavy items as needed, potentially weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to clearly communicate verbally, in writing, in person, and over the phone. Ability to hear clearly in different environments, including in person, by phone, and over other sounds to understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds. Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less, including use of computers. Ability to enter text or data into a computer or other machine by means of a traditional keyboard. Ability to work extended hours, nights, weekends, and holidays.

• We’d love to see your passion and hear about your experience! To be considered, please submit your application along with a cover letter detailing your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

•

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE THEATRE

The Tennessee Theatre is an ornate, historic movie palace fully renovated into a multi-purpose performing arts venue. It hosts more than 175 events annually, ranging from touring concerts, comedy, and Broadway; resident symphony, opera, and jazz performances; classic movies; children and family events; patron events; and private rental events. It is a treasured architectural landmark, a cultural cornerstone of the region, and an entertainment destination beloved by generations of audiences. The HTTF mission is to preserve, maintain, and operate the Official State Theatre of Tennessee as a performing arts and entertainment venue for the benefit and enjoyment of all. The Theatre is currently renovating a neighboring building (30,000 sf spread over 7 levels) that will be physically connected to the Theatre building and be used primarily to enhance and expand Theatre programming (pre

• and post-show receptions, private intermission lounges, rehearsal and educational spaces, and more) as well as additional private rental use.

Completion and full activation of this building is expected in 1Q 2026. The Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to fostering an atmosphere free from discrimination. We believe this enriches our organization and enhances our ability to fulfill our mission. Discrimination in any form is not tolerated, and we encourage all qualified individuals to apply for opportunities with us.

DISCLAIMER

: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. This job description does not in any way constitute a contract or guarantee of employment.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $49,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Paid training Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person