Assistant Director of Catering

JOB DESCRIPTION

At the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, our Catering team plays a critical role in bringing world-class events to life. As Assistant Director of Catering, you will be at the centre of that experience by leading people, shaping operations, and ensuring exceptional food and beverage service across some of the largest and most complex events in Canada.

Reporting to the Director of Catering, this role blends hands-on operational leadership with team development and mentorship. You’ll be a visible, trusted leader by coaching managers, strengthening capability across the team, and creating an environment where people feel supported, engaged, and set up for success. This role is ideal for a people-focused hospitality leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and takes pride in building strong teams and delivering memorable client experiences.

JOB RESPONSIBILTIES

Operational Leadership & Team Management:

• Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and coaching to Catering Managers, Assistant Managers, and Coordinators
• Support departmental goals through effective planning, resource allocation, and performance oversight
• Lead training, coaching, feedback, and succession planning initiatives to develop a strong and engaged team
• Act as a key escalation point for operational, staffing, and service-related matters
• Chair weekly Catering team meetings and contribute to cross-departmental planning forums

Event & Client Management:

• Lead and oversee assigned food and beverage events from initial proposal through post-event completion
• Prepare food and beverage proposals, event orders, and floor plans, ensuring accuracy and alignment with client expectations
• Attend client meetings, site visits, and events to provide leadership support and ensure service excellence
• Provide expert guidance on menus, pricing, logistics, and service standards
• Make operational decisions related to menu adjustments, pricing within authority, and service recovery

Financial Oversight:

• Ensure accuracy of event forecasts, menu costing, and revenue tracking
• Support budget planning and ongoing revenue analysis in collaboration with the Director of Catering
• Review menu cost comparisons and pricing to support profitability and financial targets
• Work closely with Finance to support billing, reconciliation, and payment processes

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement:

• Partner with internal departments, chefs, suppliers, and contractors to deliver exceptional events
• Identify opportunities to improve operational processes, service delivery, and client experience
• Represent MTCC professionally with clients, partners, and industry stakeholders

JOB SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

Experience & Knowledge

• Extensive experience in food and beverage operations within a hospitality or large-scale event environment
• Strong understanding of catering operations, menu pricing, forecasting, and cost control
• Proven leadership experience managing and developing teams in a fast-paced environment
• Experience working with event management systems such as Momentus (or similar platforms)

Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, coaching, and people management skills
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time-management abilities
• High attention to detail with strong financial and analytical skills
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with tact and diplomacy
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet tight deadlines, and perform effectively under pressure
• Commitment to service excellence and continuous improvement

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams)
• Experience using event management and floor plan software (e.g., Momentus, Amadeus)

Why Join us?

At Metro Toronto Convention Centre, we believe in investing in our people and creating a supportive, engaging workplace. As part of our team, you’ll be part of a collaborative, people-first culture and enjoy a variety of benefits designed to help you grow, succeed, and feel appreciated:

• Ongoing Training & Development – Grow your skills and explore new opportunities through learning and cross-training across departments
• Employee Recognition Platform – Be recognized and appreciated for your contributions by peers and management
• Volunteer Opportunities – Make an impact in the community through company-supported initiatives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Get confidential support for your personal and professional well-being
• Interactive Workshops – Connect, learn, and stay inspired with practical, engaging sessions

Interested applicants are asked to submit their application online no later than:

May 12, 2026

Please note: The Metro Toronto Convention Centre is proud to provide employment accommodation during the recruitment process. During any stage of the recruitment process, applicants have the right to request accommodation.