Food & Beverage Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Lincoln, NE 68507We are seeking an experienced and motivated Food & Beverage Manager to oversee all aspects of the food & beverage department including banquet, bar, and concession stand service.   Key Responsibilities:   Guest & Event Services Tailor weekly food & beverage menus to confirm profitability, seasonality, and alignment with customer preferences Develop event-specific food and beverage plans based on event type, anticipated attendance, service locations, staffing needs, menu offerings, equipment, and operational requirements. Schedule and supervise food & beverage team to support event requests and department needs Oversee service areas during events, ensuring efficient daily operations. Maintain a visible, hands-on presence during events and actively assist with operational needs, troubleshooting, staffing, and guest service as needed. Create clear guidelines for team members to resolve customer issues, not exceed wait times, and maintain consistent food quality & safety. Communicate daily shift goals to focus team member efforts on event and department tasks in order of priority Conduct post-event reviews to evaluate sales, staffing, product usage, guest feedback, operational challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Team Management Assist with recruiting, onboarding, and overseeing ongoing training of FT/PT staff as needed for the department to ensure smooth daily operations and consistent service Develop staffing plans based on event attendance, operating hours, service locations, and anticipated business volume that meet the Promoter’s request. Maintain high standards of food quality, sanitation, and customer service Obtain and oversee staff certification requirements Department Organization Monitor cost control through inventory, labor levels, menu planning, and portion control Manage department financial performance, including revenue, food and beverage costs, labor costs, inventory, waste, item pricing. Review sales, labor, inventory, and other financial reports to identify trends, control costs, and improve department performance. Oversee purchasing, product ordering, inventory levels, storage, receiving, and distribution of food, beverage, and operating supplies. Evaluate all work orders for food & beverage needs at each event, meet with event promoters when necessary to review event needs, menu choices, special requests, or dietary restrictions Align with other departments including Operations, Cleaning, Marketing, Ticketing, and Sponsorships to facilitate superior guest experiences Supplier Management & Compliance Maintain strong vendor and supplier relationships to lower procurement costs, obtain donations of equipment, and secure free training/consulting Collaborate with sponsorship manager to obtain trade partnerships for large scale events Ensure compliance with local health department standards and liquor laws   QualificationsRequired Qualifications: Authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship Must pass background and reference checks Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation High School Diploma or equivalent Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and holidays Proactive and independent problem-solving ability Strong leadership, organization, and ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment Customer service focus and professional communication Microsoft Office Suite proficiency (Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) Minimum of 1 years’ experience in food service, event management, leadership or a combination thereof Understanding of diverse F&B service formats (e.g., fast food, catering, bars) Supervisory experience in high-volume environments Required local permits (Food Protection Manager Permit and Responsible Alcohol Service Certification) at time of hire Preferred Qualifications: Degree in hospitality, communication, business management, or related field Familiarity with Clover point-of-sale (POS) system and inventory software Physical/Environmental Requirements: Ability to sit for long periods of time to work at desk Comfortable standing or walking long hours during events, both indoors and outdoors Lift up to 50 lbs. with or without accommodation during setup/service of events Professional Expectations: Maintain punctual, reliable attendance Adhere to dress code and represent SGEC professionally Delivery excellent customer service at all times Demonstrate a hands-on leadership approach and willingness to assist with operational needs during events Communicate respectfully and collaborate across departments Follow SGEC policies, use technology responsibly, and protect organizational assets Safety Requirements: Uphold workplace safety standards and emergency procedures Follow all safety protocols and use PPE when necessary Report all incidents, unsafe conditions, and equipment issues promptly Benefits Include: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Short- and long-term disability FSA and life insurance options Paid holidays and PTO (Vacation/Sick) Simple IRA retirement plan with 3% match Free uniforms Complimentary meals and fountain beverages during café operation Free event access (where permitted) Equal Opportunity Employer: Sandhills Global Event Center is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace. Accommodations are available upon request.