Operations Manager Food Service
Resume:
DAMIEN NOLAN
SUMMARY
Experienced and results-oriented Operations Manager with over 35 years in the hospitality and food service industry, including significant leadership in university event operations. Proven ability to drive excellence in event planning, team management, and client engagement within a fast-paced academic environment. Known for delivering high-quality experiences through strategic planning, adaptable problem-solving, and effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Recognized for outstanding communication skills and a commitment to both customer and staff satisfaction. Skilled in event logistics, budgeting, staff development, and cross-department coordination. A dependable and proactive leader with a passion for creating seamless, impactful campus events that align with institutional goals.
EXPERIENCE
Columbia University City of New York - Catering Operations Manager
New York • 03/2018 - 07/2025
Oversee daily operations including scheduling, client services, and staff supervision for university catering and event services.
Lead all aspects of event management, from planning and logistics to on-site execution, ensuring seamless coordination and high client satisfaction.
Manage Event Management System (EMS) scheduling and space reservations, collaborating with university departments and external clients to meet event needs.
Coordinate vendor relationships, setup logistics, food and beverage planning, and audiovisual support for events ranging from small meetings to large-scale campus functions.
Supervise and train a team of 50 union staff members (Local 100), promoting efficiency, professionalism, and service excellence.
Ensure adherence to university policies, budgetary guidelines, and compliance standards while enhancing the overall guest experience.
200 Orchard - Owner Partner
New York City • 01/2010 - 01/2015
Balance service with costs to ensure profitability, Promote guest satisfaction to steady repeat business, Coach / schedule bartenders to maximum levels of performance, Purchase / control inventory with attention to budget guidelines, Control and balance company finances
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)
Alpha, Alpha, Alpha, Honor Society (Tri-Alpha)
Columbia University Emerging Leadership Program
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Date of Birth: 01/25/72
CONTACT
*******@*****.***
Astoria, New York 11103
SKILLS
Revenue Growth
Lead Prospecting
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Bachelor of Science:
Criminal Justice
Purdue Global University
01/2024
Law
Purdue Global Law School
Junior Cert
Salesian College
Celbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland
Associate degree
Purdue Global University
CERTIFICATIONS
FEMA IS-393.B
FEMA IS-100.C
FEMA IS-193.A
Epsilon Chapter of the Justice Honor Society
Order of the Sword and Shield Academic and Professional Honor Society
National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)
Internship Columbia Law School
Chancellor's list 2021B, 2021A.
Alpha, Alpha, Alpha, Honor Society (Tri-Alpha)
Columbia University Emerging Leadership Program.
Columbia University Covid 19 training Medical Support Staff
.
#HRJ#d1b701c8-f3a4-4dc5-9595-49f722f4e139#
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