Catering FOH at ITH Hospitality – Ithaca, New York

About the Role:

The Catering Front of House (FOH) position is pivotal in delivering exceptional guest experiences at catered events across various venues in the United States. This role focuses on managing the guest-facing aspects of catering services, ensuring smooth operations from arrival through departure. The successful candidate will coordinate with kitchen staff, event planners, and service teams to maintain high standards of hospitality and professionalism. They will be responsible for setting up event spaces, greeting guests, addressing inquiries, and resolving any issues promptly to guarantee satisfaction. Ultimately, this role contributes significantly to the reputation and success of the catering service by fostering a welcoming and efficient environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience in front of house catering, hospitality, or customer service roles.
• Ability to stand and move for extended periods during events.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in diverse catering environments including corporate, social, and large-scale events.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Certification in hospitality or food service management.
• Ability to handle cash and operate point-of-sale systems.
• Bilingual abilities to assist a diverse clientele.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and welcome guests in a courteous and professional manner, ensuring a positive first impression.
• Coordinate with kitchen and service staff to ensure timely and accurate food and beverage delivery.
• Set up and break down event spaces according to client specifications and company standards.
• Manage guest inquiries and resolve any service-related issues promptly and effectively.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the front of house area throughout the event.
• Assist in inventory management and restocking of supplies as needed during events.
• Collaborate with event planners and other team members to ensure seamless event execution.

Skills:

The required skills such as strong communication and interpersonal abilities are essential for interacting effectively with guests and team members, ensuring clear and courteous exchanges. Organizational skills are used daily to manage event setups, coordinate timing, and maintain orderly service flow. Problem-solving skills help address unexpected challenges or guest concerns promptly, maintaining a high level of satisfaction. Preferred skills like knowledge of food safety enhance the ability to uphold health standards, while bilingual capabilities improve communication with a broader range of guests. Additionally, proficiency with point-of-sale systems and cash handling supports efficient transaction processing during events.