Unlock Your Potential as a Guest Experience Manager - Catering at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
Join the magic at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts as a Guest Experience Manager, Catering, and be part of a team that creates unforgettable experiences for clients and guests alike. As a leader in event operations and catering, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, managing events, leading teams, and ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction.
About the Role & Team
At Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, "We make magic!" is more than just a motto - it's a way of life. As a Catering Guest Experience Manager, you will be responsible for delivering memorable catering experiences to clients, managing Event Operations/Catering Cast Members, and fostering a creative and positive work environment. You will serve as a liaison between the Sales and Service teams, the Culinary team, and the Parks and Resorts teams to ensure seamless event execution and maintain the integrity of our partners and events.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute events from both a Convention logistics and Catering operations perspective, ensuring flawless execution and exceptional guest satisfaction.
- Collaborate with Catering, Culinary, and Entertainment partners, as well as clients, to understand their needs and preferences.
- Lead Convention and Catering Cast Members during events, providing guidance, feedback, and coaching to ensure outstanding performance.
- Promote a safe work environment and food safety culture, adhering to Disney's high standards and regulatory requirements.
- Demonstrate technical expertise and knowledge of service standards, processes, and procedures to ensure seamless event execution.
- Be visible and available to respond to the needs of clients, cast members, and peers from other workgroups, providing exceptional customer service and support.
- Lead and guide cast members through event operational performance, delivering real-time feedback and coaching to ensure continuous improvement.
- Recognize and reward team members for outstanding performance, customer service, and safety-supportive behaviors.
- Set clear priorities, direction, and expectations for cast members, fostering a culture of engagement and accountability.
- Work cross-departmentally and cross-organizationally to achieve shared goals, understanding the impact of decisions on other functional areas.
- Identify and clear obstacles to ensure successful event execution, proactively addressing challenges and concerns.
- Perform administrative duties, such as attending meetings, compiling operational metrics, completing required reports, and responding to emails.
- Investigate and respond to performance, attendance, safety complaints, and other work issues, providing fair and constructive feedback.
- Communicate event details with Park and Resort Partners, Conventions Services, Clients, and Cast Members, ensuring seamless coordination and execution.
Essential Qualifications & Skills
To succeed as a Guest Experience Manager, Catering, you will need:
- At least five years of Catering or Convention experience in a resort environment or relevant experience.
- A strong understanding of the Convention business and event operations.
- Experience coordinating the planning, communication, execution, and evaluation of events.
- Creativity and problem-solving skills to find innovative solutions and improve the Guest and Client experiences.
- The ability to empower and manage a team, fostering a culture of engagement and accountability.
- The ability to work in a fast-paced environment, leading in stressful situations and resolving conflicts effectively.
- Schedule availability to include weekends, variable shifts, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications
To stand out as a candidate, you will ideally have:
- At least two years of Food & Beverage Management experience.
- Event planning or event services experience.
- A talent for developing partnerships and working with all team members across the organization.
- Knowledge of Walt Disney World procedures and systems, such as Matra, My Time, and CDS.
- Lean Manufacturing/Continuous Improvement experience.
- Experience working in a high-volume, restaurant or catering environment.
- Food safety certification.
- A Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management or equivalent.
Education
A High School Diploma or equivalent is required. A Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management or equivalent is preferred.
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
As a Guest Experience Manager, Catering, you will have opportunities for career growth and professional development within Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. You will be part of a dynamic and supportive team, with access to training and development programs that will help you build your skills and expertise. You will also have the chance to work on high-profile events and projects, gaining valuable experience and exposure.
Work Environment and Company Culture
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is a unique and exciting work environment that offers a culture of creativity, innovation, and teamwork. As a Guest Experience Manager, Catering, you will be part of a team that is passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences and creating magical memories. You will work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with opportunities to work on a wide range of events and projects.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
Disney offers a comprehensive rewards package that includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and special extras that only Disney can provide. As a Guest Experience Manager, Catering, you will be eligible for a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
Join the Magic
If you are a motivated and experienced leader with a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Guest Experience Manager, Catering, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to creating magical memories and delivering exceptional service. Join us and be part of the magic!
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