Banquet and Catering Events Lead

Corewell Health
United States, Michigan, Grand Rapids
Jan 07, 2026
Job Summary We're looking for an exceptional communicator and operational problem-solver to serve as the vital connection between our events coordination and catering operations teams. If you thrive on preventing problems before they happen, translating between different teams' languages, and ensuring flawless execution under pressure, this role is for you. As our Banquet & Catering Events Lead, you'll be the person who makes sure nothing falls through the cracks. You'll turn event requests into crystal-clear kitchen production plans, catch potential issues days in advance, and coordinate seamless delivery of high-stakes corporate events-primarily serving hospital system leadership meetings where excellence isn't optional. You'll spend your day moving between the kitchen, coordination offices, and event sites. You'll build relationships with chefs, event planners, and delivery teams. You'll be the calm, solution-focused voice when things get hectic. And you'll go home each day knowing your attention to detail made dozens of people's events run flawlessly. Essential Functions Keep Everyone on the Same Page Translate event coordinator requests into detailed kitchen production sheets with precise quantities, timing, dietary restrictions, and setup specifications Conduct pre-event briefings with kitchen teams 48-72 hours before each event Create day-of timeline documents showing exactly when things need to happen Serve as point of contact during events for real-time coordination Catch Problems Before They Become Crises Review upcoming events constantly, identifying potential issues early Ensure Quality Every Single Time Perform quality checks on food presentation, temperature, and accuracy before delivery Coordinate last-minute changes (guest count adjustments, dietary accommodations) Troubleshoot equipment failures, timing issues, and unexpected challenges Document lessons learned and drive continuous improvement Build Systems That Prevent Future Issues Track patterns in service challenges and recommend process improvements Update standard operating procedures based on real event outcomes Help newer team members understand the coordination process Verify ingredient availability and equipment needs well in advance Monitor kitchen production progress and flag delays immediately Develop backup plans for high-risk events Teaches and maintains correct sanitation and personal hygiene procedures throughout assigned areas, e.g., following proper dress code. Completes assigned quality assurance monitors. Applies reasonable judgment to the interpretation departmental policies and procedures. Ensures proper preparation and services meals. Ensures proper storage of food items as required, labeling and dating items per standard. Responsible for the training of new staff. May lead new hire department orientation or perform other technical tasks within the designated area of responsibility. Picks up and delivers various materials, supplies and other items and ensures vehicle is ready for the following route by filling up the gas tank and returning keys and equipment to designated area. Keep vehicles clean, organized and prepared for the next drive to utilize. Advise supervisor of any repairs needed. Ensures timely, safe and accurate deliver and must be able to operate vehicles in all weather and driving conditions and abides by all traffic laws while representing Corewell Health in a professional manner. Qualifications Required High School Diploma or equivalent 1 year of relevant experience food service, preferably in health care setting or related field Must be 21 years of age Must have excellent driving record LIC-Driver's License - STATE_MI State of Michigan Upon Hire CRT-Accredited Food Protection Manager, CFP - ANSI National Accreditation Board ANSI National Accreditation Board 90 Days Preferred Associate's Degree Hospitality or Nutrition 1 year of relevant experience Leadership About Corewell Health As a team member at Corewell Health, you will play an essential role in delivering personalized health care to our patients, members and our communities. We are committed to cultivating and investing in YOU. Our top-notch teams are comprised of collaborators, leaders and innovators that continue to build on one shared mission statement - to improve health, instill humanity and inspire hope. Join a nationally recognized health system with an ambitious vision of continued advancement and excellence. How Corewell Health cares for you Comprehensive benefits package to meet your financial, health, and work/life balance goals. Learn more here. On-demand pay program powered by Payactiv Discounts directory with deals on the things that matter to you, like restaurants, phone plans, spas, and more! Optional identity theft protection, home and auto insurance, pet insurance Traditional and Roth retirement options with service contribution and match savings Eligibility for benefits is determined by employment type and status Primary Location SITE - Corewell Health Place - 100 Corewell Drive NW - Grand Rapids Department Name Nutrition CH Place - Corporate Employment Type Full time Shift Variable (United States of America) Weekly Scheduled Hours 40 Hours of Work Variable 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Days Worked Monday to Friday Weekend Frequency Variable weekends CURRENT COREWELL HEALTH TEAM MEMBERS - Please apply through Find Jobs from your Workday team member account. This career site is for Non-Corewell Health team members only. Corewell Health is committed to providing a safe environment for our team members, patients, visitors, and community. We require a drug-free workplace and require team members to comply with the MMR, Varicella, Tdap, and Influenza vaccine requirement if in an on-site or hybrid workplace category. We are committed to supporting prospective team members who require reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment due to a disability, pregnancy, or sincerely held religious belief. Corewell Health grants equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, genetic information, marital status, height, weight, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected category. An interconnected, collaborative culture where all are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work, is vital to the health of our organization. As a health system, we advocate for equity as we care for our patients, our communities, and each other. From workshops that develop cultural intelligence, to our inclusion resource groups for people to find community and empowerment at work, we are dedicated to ongoing resources that advance our values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. We invite those that share in our commitment to join our team. You may request assistance in completing the application process by calling 616.486.7447.