Event Manager

Shiraz Kitchen & Wine Bar | Chelsea, NYC & White Plains, NY

Shiraz Kitchen & Wine Bar is seeking an experienced, hospitality-driven Event & Catering Manager to lead and grow our private dining and catering programs across our Chelsea NYC and White Plains locations.

Recognized by the MICHELIN Guide (Bib Gourmand 2020–2022) , The New York Times (“Very Good”) , and Wine Spectator (2024 Award of Excellence) , Shiraz Kitchen is known for Persian-Mediterranean cuisine, a world-class wine program, and a deeply human approach to hospitality. Every event we host is treated as a celebration, not a transaction.

You will work closely with owner Reza Parhizkaran , overseeing events from first inquiry to flawless execution, while serving as the bridge between Events, Front of House, and Back of House teams.

This role blends sales leadership, operational excellence, and on-the-floor hospitality . You will own the full event lifecycle: inquiry response, client relationship management, contract execution, internal communication, staffing, execution, and financial reconciliation.

You will also act as a culture carrier , modeling exceptional service standards and elevating the guest and team experience at every touchpoint.

• Champion Shiraz Kitchen’s core values and culture of gracious, detail-driven hospitality.

• Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for VIP guests, private events, and buyouts.

• Build and nurture long-term relationships with corporate clients, planners, and community partners.

• Address guest feedback with professionalism, warmth, and accountability.

• Personally oversee service execution for VIP events to ensure excellence.

• Manage the full sales cycle for all private dining, buyouts, and catering events from inquiry to completion.

• Ensure all event inquiries are responded to within 24–48 hours , with same-day responses during business hours.

• Proactively generate new business through outbound sales, networking, and relationship-building.

• Create, manage, and execute contracts, BEOs, menus, and timelines using Tripleseat .

• Maintain accurate event calendars, reservation books, and client records.

• Coordinate with culinary leadership on menu planning, dietary accommodations, and wine pairings.

• Oversee all third-party vendors (florals, décor, AV, entertainment, security, rentals).

• Directly oversee setup, breakdown, and service for VIP events and full buyouts.

• Liaise seamlessly between Events, FOH, and BOH teams to ensure flawless execution.

• Create systems of accountability and provide consistent coaching and feedback to the Events team.

• Perform back-office POS functions including employee profiles and menu button creation as needed.

• Conduct Department of Health walkthroughs; immediately address and resolve any violations.

• Promote safe work practices, document incidents, and lead initial investigations when required.

• Ensure all team members are educated on Shiraz Kitchen’s food, beverage, and service standards.

• Plan and communicate promotions and company initiatives effectively.

• Hire, train, supervise, coach, and evaluate Events team members.

• Act as a role model for professionalism, hospitality, and leadership.

• Foster morale, teamwork, and open communication across departments.

• Resolve staff and guest concerns in alignment with company policies.

• Ensure all events are properly staffed, scheduled, and supported.

• Track and manage event department financials against budgeted goals.

• Audit event closures for financial accuracy and maintain clean bookkeeping.

• Prepare and present quarterly and annual event performance reports.

• Support revenue growth while protecting margins and operational integrity.

• Minimum 3–5 years of event or catering management experience in upscale or fine-dining restaurants.

• Proven experience managing high-volume private events and multiple locations.

• Strong working knowledge of Tripleseat , POS systems, and reservation platforms.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to remain composed and professional in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

• Knowledge of Department of Health regulations and workplace safety practices.

• Food Handler’s Certification (or ability to obtain).

• Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between locations.

• Background in Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine.

• Existing relationships with NYC and Westchester event planners or corporate clients.

• Wine knowledge or sommelier certification.

• Bilingual abilities.

• Experience managing $1M+ in annual event revenue.

• Degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or related field.

• Competitive salary: $65,000–$75,000 , based on experience

• Growth opportunities within an expanding hospitality group

• Wine education and professional development

• Meal benefits at both locations

• A collaborative, family-oriented team culture

• The opportunity to create unforgettable experiences where food, wine, and hospitality tell a story

If you are passionate about hospitality, thrive in leadership roles, and believe events should feel personal, we would love to hear from you.

To Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining:

• Your event management experience

• Why Shiraz Kitchen’s Persian-Mediterranean concept excites you

• Your availability and preferred primary location

Shiraz Kitchen & Wine Bar is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.