The Catering Director leads a sophisticated, high‑touch corporate catering program in Rahway, NJ, overseeing all aspects of event strategy, execution, and service excellence. This leader is responsible for shaping a modern, innovative catering experience that reflects the expectations of a Global Strategic Account, ensuring every event — from executive meetings to large‑scale functions — delivers a seamless, world‑class experience.
This role requires a visionary hospitality leader who excels at building strong client partnerships, inspiring diverse teams, and driving operational and financial performance. The Catering Director will oversee catering operations and collaborate closely with culinary, café, and hospitality teams to create cohesive, elevated food and service experiences.
The ideal candidate is a strategic, hands‑on operator who thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑expectation environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional events through creativity, precision, and a commitment to outstanding service.
This account is part of the SodexoMAGIC portfolio — the joint venture between NBA Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Sodexo. Through this partnership, we deliver creative, community‑focused solutions that elevate the guest experience and strengthen the communities we serve.
Lead all catering operations, ensuring flawless planning, execution, and premium service delivery for high‑profile corporate events
Partner with clients and internal stakeholders to design innovative, customized event experiences aligned with brand and organizational standards
Oversee event logistics, staffing, production timelines, and service standards to ensure consistency, efficiency, and excellence
Drive financial performance through accurate forecasting, cost control, and revenue‑enhancing strategies
Ensure compliance with company policies, safety protocols, and contractual requirements across all catering activities
Coach, mentor, and develop catering managers and frontline teams to strengthen capability, engagement, and service culture
Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.
Extensive experience leading high‑volume, premium corporate catering or hospitality operations
Proven ability to deliver exceptional event experiences with strong attention to detail and service excellence
Strong client‑relationship and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levels
Demonstrated success developing, motivating, and inspiring high‑performing teams
Strategic mindset with the ability to translate client needs into innovative catering solutions
Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and operational problem‑solving
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.
Minimum Education Requirement - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience
Minimum Management Experience – 5 years
Minimum Functional Experience – 5 years