A Journey of Growth at NACE 2024
In the world of events, where the spotlight often shines on chefs, event planners and high-profile guests, there exists a group of professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of every gathering. These individuals are the Directors of Catering—unsung heroes whose leadership and vision shape every meal, every event and every guest experience.
Recently, a group of Harvest Table Culinary Group catering directors took part in a transformative journey of growth at a nationally recognized catering conference hosted by the National Association of Catering and Events (NACE). Not limited to catering directors, NACE is an organization that brings together event professionals from around the nation to elevate the events community and foster creative collaboration. Embracing opportunities for development, learning and connections, our directors spent 4 days together in Denver, CO.
Stepping Into a New Era of Catering
For many years, catering directors have been the glue holding together the intricate web of catering logistics. From managing kitchen staff and coordinating with event planners to overseeing food presentation and ensuring client satisfaction, their work is both challenging and crucial. However, the recognition they often receive is limited. This is why events like the annual NACE conference are so important—they not only offer a platform for these unsung heroes to learn and evolve but also allow them to be celebrated for the invaluable work they do.
At NACE, catering directors from across the country came together with a shared commitment to advancing their skills and expanding their expertise. What made this year’s event particularly meaningful was the focus on professional growth—an emphasis on equipping catering directors with new tools and insights to lead their teams more effectively, streamline operations, and elevate the catered experiences they create.
Innovation and Collaboration
Catering, like every aspect of our industry, is evolving. The expectations of clients are changing, dietary preferences are shifting, and the culinary world is becoming more diverse and innovative. The NACE offered a space where catering directors could not only stay on top of emerging trends but also gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies and methodologies in the industry.
Workshops covered topics ranging from sustainability and food waste reduction to the latest trends in event design. There were deep dives into managing complex dietary requirements, as well as cutting-edge techniques for food preparation and presentation. Networking events provided ample opportunities for catering directors to exchange ideas, share challenges, and collaborate with peers, while getting creative with their attire. It was a rare moment where these professionals could take a step back from the daily grind and focus on their growth, both personally and professionally.
Success in catering isn’t just about serving great food; it’s about continuously evolving, staying ahead of trends, leading teams with vision, and providing exceptional guest experiences.
HTCG Leadership
Empowering our Unsung Heroes
While much of the credit for an event’s success is often directed toward the chefs or event planners, catering directors are the ones managing the big picture. They juggle everything from logistics to staff morale, ensuring that everything runs smoothly without any hiccups. It’s easy for them to fall into the background, but their role is indispensable.
The NACE acknowledged the vital importance of these professionals, encouraging them to embrace their leadership potential and value their expertise. Many catering directors, often seen as mere organizers, left the event feeling empowered—equipped with a renewed sense of purpose and an expanded toolkit for success. They returned to their respective teams not just with new skills, but with a fresh perspective on how to lead with innovation, empathy, and a commitment to excellence.
A Commitment to Ongoing Development
What makes this gathering of directors so significant is that it is just one example of how the catering industry and Harvest Table are embracing growth and change. The takeaway from NACE was clear: success in catering isn’t just about serving great food; it’s about continuously evolving, staying ahead of trends, leading teams with vision, and providing exceptional guest experiences.
As our catering directors return to your campus, they do so with new strategies for overcoming challenges, creating more meaningful guest experiences, and advancing the business of catering. Their journey at NACE is a reminder of the importance of professional development and the value of investing in the growth of those who often work behind the scenes.
Catering Directors may not always be in the spotlight, but their work is critical to the success of every event. Their dedication and passion for what they do make them the unsung heroes of the industry. As the world of catering continues to evolve, we are committed to the continued development and growth of our unsung heroes. The journey of growth doesn’t stop at NACE—it’s just the beginning.
