Job Description

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you.

Job Summary

Are you passionate about creating unforgettable dining experiences and leading high-performing teams? We have an exciting opportunity for you at Mills College at Northeastern University!


Mills College, located in the heart of Oakland, California, is part of Northeastern University’s global university system. Known for its commitment to social justice, equity, and women’s education, Mills offers a dynamic and diverse community with a focus on transformative learning experiences. The merger with Northeastern brings innovative opportunities, global connections, and expanded resources, fostering a unique academic environment.


We are seeking a dynamic Catering Director to lead our premier catering department. In this role, you will bring innovative catering solutions to life, consistently exceeding client expectations. You'll collaborate closely with our Executive Chef to craft personalized menus for a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to exclusive VIP affairs on campus.


Why Chartwells Higher Education?
At Chartwells, we don't just provide meals; we create exceptional dining experiences that fuel the minds and bodies of students and community members alike. As a part of Compass Group, a global leader in food services, we are committed to excellence, innovation, and above all, fostering a culture of growth and empowerment.

Key Responsibilities:
Lead and Coordinate: Oversee all aspects of both internal and external catering events, ensuring flawless execution and exceptional client satisfaction.
Strategic Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive catering marketing strategy. Provide clients with a full-service event planning experience, offering customized menu options tailored to their unique preferences and needs.
Team Development: Lead the recruitment, training, and scheduling of catering staff. Foster a culture of excellence, mentoring your team in service techniques, menu presentation, and adherence to best practices and policies.
Operational Excellence: Ensure seamless operation across all catering functions, with meticulous attention to detail in labor and food cost management. Oversee every phase of event preparation, from transportation and setup to execution and cleanup.
Revenue Growth: Partner with Management and Chartwells Marketing teams to implement strategies that drive catering revenue and expand our market reach.
Client Relationship Management: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, ensuring our catering programs align with their goals. Focus on delivering exceptional experiences that lead to long-term client satisfaction and retention.
Additional Responsibilities: Take on additional tasks as needed to support the overall success of our dining services.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality or Culinary Arts
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in the hospitality industry including 2 years in management (preferably Catering Management) is required
  • Booking, selecting and costing menu items, pricing contracts, and resourcing temporary help and equipment experience is key
  • The ability to supervise food preparation, service, and cleanup is also essential

Salary Range: 85,000-90,000
Starting Rate of pay may vary based on factors including, but not limited to: location, education, training, and/or experience

Apply to Chartwells Higher Education today!

Chartwells Higher Education is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates at Chartwells Higher Ed are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Req ID: 1357877

Chartwells Higher Education

JESSICA BARRICK

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Application Instructions

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