For most country clubs, the food and beverage department is a top amenity and is at the center of member activities and events. It is the F&B Director who oversees all food and beverage management including catering, events and all culinary operations. A country club’s F&B Director must maintain and improve food and beverage service standards with the objective of consistently meeting and exceeding member expectations.
A F&B Director must work closely with other members of the team to deliver an experience that seamlessly incorporates fantastic food, delicious drinks and superb service. The director is responsible for coordinating the management of large banquets, weddings, member events and all dining facilities. In addition, this director is responsible for overseeing employees, inventory and budgets of the food and beverage department.
A F&B Director seeks out new and innovative ways to meet and respond to the needs and demands of a club’s ever-changing and diverse group of members. A director must have strong organizational and time management skills and displays strategic thinking, excellence, passion and forethought. They must identify the details necessary to consistently achieve high levels of quality, satisfaction and outstanding member experiences.
Many directors work their way up through various disciplines of restaurant management operations, typically including cooking, serving and shift management training. The education required for this position is typically either a restaurant management program or a culinary degree.
A F&B Director works in tandem with the Executive Chef to manage the front-of-house operations and serve as the liaison between both sides of the house. While a F&B Director and Executive Chef require similar backgrounds, a F&B Director extends their reach outside the kitchen as well. The F&B Director manages a club’s front-of-house operation with a wider lens, considering the bigger picture of its business goals. The F&B Director has the ability to motivate and inspire others to work cooperatively to achieve these designated goals.
