Event Caterer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The application window for this position has an anticipated end date of 08/13/2026.

Company Overview

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is one of the largest non-profit theatre organizations in the nation, presenting Broadway tours and producing theatre, cabaret, musicals, and innovative, immersive experiences. Through these experiences and alongside our robust Education program, we engage hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The DCPA’s workforce includes more than 300 employed team members in non-union and union positions (in partnership with seven unions). In addition, we employ hundreds of artists and contractors annually. We have a strong volunteer program which includes more than 300 volunteers.

Our Mission: “We engage and inspire through the transformative power of live theatre.”

Culture Statement

For more than 40 years, creativity and community have been the foundation of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ success. As a leading cultural organization in the Rocky Mountain West, we are actively participating in a cultural evolution of belonging and anti-racism. Our commitment to reflect the diversity and priorities of our community — in our workplace, audience and programming — has never been more present.

We believe that the theater can transform us — and be transformed by us. We invite you to be part of our Team.

Job Purpose

The Associate Director of Event Management is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and execution of private events across DCPA event venues, including the Seawell Ballroom, Director Room, and theatre rental spaces. Reporting to the General Manager of Event Services, this role provides leadership to the Event Management team and oversees the successful delivery of events from contract handoff through event completion, ensuring exceptional client service, operational excellence, and consistent execution of DCPA standards.

As a member of the Event Services leadership team supporting a $3.2 million event services operation, this position partners closely with clients, technical production, venue operations, catering partners, and vendors to deliver seamless event experiences while continuously improving processes, team performance, and client satisfaction.

This role requires a dynamic, hands-on leader with a strong professional presence, who can balance strategy and execution in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

Event Management & Client Experience

• Lead the Event Management team in the planning and execution of all contracted events
• Oversee client relationships following contract execution, ensuring seamless transition from the sales process into event planning and execution; and post event the client is handed back Associate Director of Sales for follow up and rebooking
• Establish event management standards and ensure consistent delivery of exceptional client experiences across all event types
• Serve as an escalation point for complex client concerns and event-related issues
• Ensure accurate and timely communication between clients and internal stakeholders throughout the planning lifecycle
• Monitor event timelines, planning milestones, and operational readiness to ensure successful event delivery
• Develop post-event feedback processes and identify opportunities for continuous improvement

Planning and Logistics

• Oversee development and execution of event plans, production schedules, floorplans, timelines, and operational documentation
• Coordinate event logistics with Facilities, Security, Technical Production, Venue Operations, Catering Partners, and other stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, venue requirements, safety procedures, and event standards
• Support execution of high-profile, complex, and large-scale events as necessary
• Collaborate with internal teams to resolve operational challenges and ensure successful event outcomes
• Manage event capacity, staffing assignments, and workload distribution across the Event Management team
• Oversee Event Logistics Manager and associated scheduling and coordination of conversion crew, catering and vendor partners, fire detail, and other related logistics scheduling

Systems and Process

• Lead day-to-day utilization and continuous improvement of the Momentus event management platform
• Ensure event records, manager assignments, planning documentation, floorplans, timelines, labor, charges and client communications are accurately maintained
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve event management procedures, workflows, SOPs, and best practices
• Establish operational metrics and KPIs related to event execution, client satisfaction, and planning efficiency
• Analyze event management processes and recommend improvements that enhance client experience and operational effectiveness

Vendor and Partner Coordination

• Manage operational relationships and compliance requirements for event-related vendors and service providers
• Coordinate vendor participation, scheduling, and communication to support successful event execution
• Partner with catering providers and venue operations teams to ensure seamless service delivery and adherence to venue requirements
• Ensure vendors comply with DCPA policies, insurance requirements, and event procedures

Leadership and Staff Development

• Provide direct leadership, coaching, and support for the Event Management team including Event Managers, Event Logistics Manager and Event Captains
• Develop training programs and onboarding processes for event management staff
• Establish performance expectations and promote accountability, collaboration, and professional growth
• Ensure equitable distribution of assignments and resources across the team
• Foster a positive, client-focused culture that emphasizes teamwork, communication, and operational excellence

Additional Responsibilities

• Serve as a representative of DCPA in client, vendor, and community interactions as appropriate
• Support organizational initiatives, special projects, and cross-departmental collaboration
• Perform other duties as required to support the success of the department and organization

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience in hospitality management, event management, or a related field
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in event management, venue operations, hospitality, conference services, or related fields
• Minimum 2-3 years of supervisory or team leadership experience
• Demonstrated experience managing complex events from planning through execution
• Strong client relationship management and customer service skills
• Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders, vendors, and operational teams
• Exceptional organizational, project management, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment with exceptional attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm, confident, professional, and solution-oriented under pressure
• Experience utilizing event management platforms, CRM systems, or venue scheduling software
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Knowledge of event operations, safety practices, crowd management principles, and venue logistics

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in performing arts venues, cultural institutions, convention centers, hotels, or multi-use event facilities
• Knowledge of audiovisual production, theatrical operations, and event technology
• Experience with Momentus or similar event management software
• Professional certifications such as CMP or CSEP

Working Conditions

The DCPA operates in a hybrid work environment, with remote work flexibility based on business needs and event schedules. This role requires frequent on-site presence and availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays in alignment with event activity.

Physical Requirements

The position requires the ability to communicate effectively, stand and walk for extended periods, use hands and arms for operational tasks, and occasionally lift and move materials or equipment.

Direct Reports/Supervisor Responsibility

This position directly supervises several Event Managers, Manager of Event Operations, and Event Captains, and is responsible for coaching, performance management, training, scheduling, and professional development of assigned staff.

Compensation

$88,000.00 - $95,000.00 annually

Benefits

Full time positions include the following benefits:

Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance and Pet Insurance

401k Plan with employer contributions

Time off benefits including personal days, sick days, vacation days and 10 paid holidays.

The DCPA is located in Denver, CO and all roles are based at our on-site location: 1101 13th Street, Denver, CO 80204. Some roles at the DCPA may be eligible for hybrid work options. More information is available through the interview process.

The DCPA does not require applicants to disclose age, date of birth or dates of attendance and/or graduation from an educational institution in their application for employment. Applicants may redact these and other applicable dates from their resume, transcript, and any other material that they submit as part of their application for employment.

In order to provide high quality, culturally competent care to our patrons, students, guests and team members, it is of highest importance that our hiring practices reflect our values by offering an environment that celebrates diversity and embraces inclusion. All of our team members – regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, language, abilities/disabilities, socioeconomic status, geographic region, or other defining characteristics – should feel welcome and valued.