Head of Catering jobs

Food and Beverage Director

Lead One of Halifax’s Leading Hotel Food & Beverage Operations

The Westin Nova Scotian is seeking an accomplished and passionate Director of Food & Beverage to lead one of the hotel's largest and most dynamic departments. As a member of the Executive Committee, you will provide strategic leadership for all food and beverage operations, including our signature restaurant, banquet and conference services, catering, in-room dining, culinary team, stewarding and employee cafeteria. This is an exciting opportunity for a hospitality leader passionate about exceptional guest experiences, developing high-performing teams and delivering outstanding financial results.

The successful candidate is a hands-on leader who is equally comfortable engaging with guests during busy service, coaching department leaders, collaborating with the Executive Chef and Restaurant Manager on menu development, reviewing financial performance and developing strategies to grow revenue. You understand that exceptional guest experiences, engaged associates and sound business decisions go hand in hand.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for all Food & Beverage operations while ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction, operational excellence and financial performance.
• Recruit, hire, train, coach, mentor and develop managers, supervisors and associates, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, forecasts and business plans while monitoring labour costs, food and beverage costs, inventory levels and operating expenses to maximize profitability.
• Work closely with the Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, and Sales & Catering team to develop innovative menus, beverage programs, promotions and guest experiences that reflect current market trends and drive revenue.
• Ensure the restaurant, banquet operations, catering services and in-room dining consistently deliver exceptional service while maintaining Marriott brand standards and quality expectations.
• Maintain a visible presence throughout the operation, interacting with guests and associates, resolving concerns promptly and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Monitor departmental performance through financial reporting, forecasting and key performance indicators, implementing action plans where necessary.
• Oversee purchasing, inventory management, loss prevention and cost control initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, workplace health and safety, liquor licensing and company policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular department meetings, communicate hotel initiatives and maintain an open-door leadership philosophy.
• Collaborate with fellow Executive Committee members to support hotel-wide initiatives and achieve overall business objectives.
• Serve as Manager on Duty as required.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of progressive Food & Beverage leadership experience within a full-service hotel, resort or conference property.
• Proven experience leading restaurant, banquet and culinary operations in a high-volume environment.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, labour management and cost control.
• Demonstrated success building and leading high-performing teams through coaching, mentoring and employee development.
• Excellent leadership, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Thorough knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, responsible alcohol service and applicable legislation.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and hospitality operating systems.
• Marriott experience is considered a strong asset.

Why Join Us?

At The Westin Nova Scotian, we believe exceptional guest experiences start with exceptional people. We are committed to investing in our team through competitive compensation, performance-based rewards, professional development opportunities, and meaningful benefits designed to support your success, growth and well-being.

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentive opportunities.
• Comprehensive health and dental benefits.
• Paid vacation and 13 company-recognized holidays.
• Complimentary meal during every shift.
• Complimentary employee parking for management.
• Dry cleaning service for work attire.
• Access to the hotel's fitness centre and indoor pool.
• Marriott Explore Rate and New Castle Hotels & Resorts employee travel discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counselling, wellness resources and work-life support.
• Ongoing leadership development and opportunities for career growth.
• A collaborative, inclusive workplace where your ideas are valued, your achievements are recognized and your leadership can make a lasting impact.

This is more than a leadership position—it's an opportunity to shape memorable guest experiences, develop exceptional people and contribute to the continued success of one of Halifax's premier hotels. If you're ready for your next challenge, we encourage you to apply and become part of The Westin Nova Scotian leadership team.