Director of Catering and Events

BUTTERFIELD COUNTRY CLUB

Oak Brook, IL Job Details Full-time $95,000 - $105,000 a year 4 hours ago Benefits Health insurance 401(k) Paid time off Employee assistance program Vision insurance 401(k) matching Employee discount Professional development assistance Life insurance Referral program Qualifications Teamwork Sales Team leadership Bachelor's degree Attention to detail Hospitality industry experience Managing event budgets Vendor relationship management Vendor communication Organizational skills Leading team collaboration initiatives Productivity software Office management Managing hospitality operations budgets Full Job Description Job Summary The Director of Catering oversees the planning, coordination, and successful execution of all private, Banquet, and Club events at Butterfield Country Club. This position is responsible for driving member and guest satisfaction through exceptional event experiences while maintaining profitability and operational efficiency. The Director of Catering manages the catering and event sales process from inquiry through completion, working closely with the culinary, Banquet, and operations teams to ensure seamless communication and flawless execution. This role also provides leadership and direction to the Banquet Manager, Assistant Banquet Manager, Assistant Event Planner, and supporting banquet service staff.

Reports To:

Assistant General Manager and/or Assistant General Manager (Also works closely with Food & Beverage Leadership)

Direct Reports:

This position directly oversees the Banquet Manager, Assistant Banquet Manager, Assistant Event Planner, Banquet Bussers, and Banquet Servers. Essential Functions Lead all catering details, including private member events, weddings, and corporate functions, club events. Serve as the primary liaison between clients, members, and Club departments, ensuring all details and expectations are met or exceeded. Supervise and mentor the Catering and Events team to achieve departmental goals, exceptional service, and consistent communication. Oversee all administrative aspects of the catering office, including contracts, confirmations, deposits, invoices, and correspondence. Conduct site tours and consultations to promote Club facilities and drive new business. Collaborate with the Executive Chef and AGM to develop catering menus, pricing, and packages. Review and approve Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), timelines, and floor plans for accuracy and completeness. Manage event logistics, including setup, décor, staffing, and vendor coordination. Monitor catering sales, forecasting, and departmental budgets to ensure profitability. Coordinate with the Banquet and Culinary teams to ensure event execution aligns with Club standards. Attend pre-event and post-event meetings to maintain operational alignment and service consistency. Maintain positive relationships with members, vendors, and community partners. Supervise all client tastings, walk-throughs, and pre-event meetings. Support and oversee all Club signature events (holiday brunches, member socials, golf tournaments, weddings, and charity functions). Assist in other assignments not included in Duties & Responsibilities as directed by management to support overall Club operations. This is a full-time, year-round position requiring a minimum of 40 hours per week across five (5) working days. During the off-season months, managers are still expected to maintain this schedule and fulfill operational or administrative responsibilities. If unable to work a scheduled day, Paid Leave Time (PLT) or vacation time must be used in accordance with Club policy. Marketing Responsibilities Responsible for maintaining and updating the Club's catering and event marketing efforts, including managing the Club's Instagram and digital event content to promote Butterfield's services and offerings. Collaborates with the Director of Marketing and Communications to ensure consistent branding and high-quality visuals for event promotion. Assists in developing marketing materials for weddings, banquets, and special Club functions. Administrative Responsibilities Maintain catering software and ensure all event information is accurate and current. Manage billing accuracy for all catering and Club events. Prepare annual catering forecasts, budgets, and financial reports. Schedule and lead regular department meetings to review event logistics and service expectations. Coordinate the Club's annual Master Calendar of Events in collaboration with leadership and committees. Ensure timely communication of all event details to kitchen, service, and management staff. Maintain comprehensive event records and historical data for future reference. Evaluate catering processes regularly and recommend operational improvements.

Qualifications / Skills

Needed Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Event Planning, or related field preferred. Minimum 5 years of experience in catering, events, or banquet management within a private club, resort, or upscale hospitality environment. Proven experience in sales, budgeting, and event operations. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and catering/event management software (Club Essentials preferred). Ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines with strong attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to build strong member and vendor relationships. Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on Club event schedule. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours). Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions. Ability to work both indoors and outdoors during event setup and execution. Uniform & Appearance Standards Professional business attire or Club-provided uniform must be clean and pressed at all times. Shoes must be closed-toe, slip-resistant, and in good repair. Personal appearance must reflect the professionalism and conservative standards of the Club.

Pay:

$95,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Referral program Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person