Job DescriptionKalamazoo Event Center (KEC)The Kalamazoo Event Center is a premier sports and entertainment venue in downtown Kalamazoo, hosting concerts, sporting events, and large-scale events. The facility features high-volume concession marketplaces, modular stands, premium suites and clubs, full-service banquet operations, and the Western Michigan University Athletic Performance Center (APC) cafeteria.
POSITION SUMMARY:The Director of Food & Beverage provides strategic and operational leadership for all food and beverage operations at KEC. This role oversees concessions, premium hospitality, banquets, beverage programs, and the WMU Athletic Performance Center.
This position requires a highly strategic, systems-driven leader who can drive revenue, maximize per caps, and deliver exceptional guest experiences in a fast-paced, high-volume environment while leading a large, multi-functional team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:Operational Leadership- Oversee all F&B operations including:
- Concessions (marketplaces + concourse stands)
- Premium suites and clubs
- Banquet and event operations
- WMU Athletic Performance Center (APC) cafeteria
- Ensure consistent execution, service standards, and operational alignment across all outlets.
Revenue & Financial Performance- Drive overall F&B revenue with a strong focus on per cap growth.
- Develop pricing, packaging, and promotional strategies.
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
- Manage food, beverage, and labor cost controls.
Culinary & Beverage Strategy- Provide oversight and direction to the Executive Chef and culinary team.
- Lead all beverage programming across concessions, premium, and club spaces.
- Ensure offerings are profitable, executable, and aligned with guest expectations.
Systems & Througout- Develop systems that drive speed of service, efficiency, and consistency.
- Optimize guest flow and reduce friction across all service points.
- Utilize data and reporting to continuously improve performance.
Partnerships & WMU Athletics- Serve as primary F&B liaison for WMU Athletics (hockey, men's & women's basketball).
- Oversee APC cafeteria operations and athlete dining experience.
- Support game day operations, team needs, and partnership initiatives.
Team Development- Recruit, develop, and lead a large F&B team across all areas.
- Build strong leadership pipelines and accountability within the organization.
- Foster a culture of performance, engagement, and service excellence.
Community & Brand Engagement- Build relationships with local businesses, vendors, and community partners.
- Represent KEC and Greenleaf Hospitality Group in the community.
- Support downtown activation and community initiatives.
Compliance & Safety- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and liquor regulations.
- Oversee food safety, sanitation, and operational standards.
QUALIFICATIONS:- 10+ years of leadership experience in high-volume F&B operations
(sports & entertainment, hotels, or multi-unit environments preferred) - Proven ability to manage complex, multi-outlet operations
- Strong food and beverage knowledge, including beverage program leadership
- Experience driving revenue growth and per cap performance
- Strong financial acumen (P&L, budgeting, forecasting)
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Proficient in POS systems and Microsoft Office / Google Suite
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferred
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:- Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 10 hours)
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays
SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE:- Strong per cap growth and revenue performance
- Efficient, high-throughput operations with minimal guest friction
- High-performing, engaged F&B team
- Seamless execution across concessions, premium, and events
- Strong partnership with WMU Athletics and community stakeholders
