The National Association of Catering Executives, the oldest and largest catering association in the world, encompasses all aspects of the catering industry. Dedicated to promoting career success for its members and the professionalism of the industry, NACE offers educational programs, professional certification, chapter initiatives, networking opportunities, recognition and awards programs, a job bank, community service projects and the industry’s most prestigious annual conference. In helping its members enhance their business and careers, NACE helps the industry reach its highest potential.

The Four Elements of NACE

These elements demonstrate NACE's value proposition, the embodiment of what the organization offers to our members, customers, stakeholders, and consumers.

NACE-U: From the Experience! conference to the CPCE, NACE-U will be the central hub for everything education for the catering and event professional.

Answers and Solutions: NACE will strive to provide, to its members, the information, tools, and resources they need for business success

Connections and Community: People are the heart of our organization.  It is for that reason that NACE is committed to create a vibrant and engaged community of professionals who will move the industry forward.

Endowment for the Future: Through philanthropy and passion, the Foundation of NACE will serve as a conduit for members to give back and help grow the future.

The Foundation of NACE
In 1985, NACE created the Foundation of NACE to further the association's positive impact in educating future catering professionals at the university level. The Foundation awards grants to established catering courses and degree programs in college curricula. Recent recipients of NACE Foundation grants are Florida International University, University of Nevada at Las Vegas and Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. Through the Foundation, NACE is helping universities and colleges recognize the importance of culinary degrees.

CPCE Certification

NACE encourages the professional development of caterers and event specialists through voluntary participation in its certification program. Achievement of the Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) designation demonstrates expertise in catering earned by taking a comprehensive examination that covers the seven core competencies of the catering and event management industry.

The goals of the CPCE program are to:
•    Establish a nationally recognized standard of competence in catering
•    Promote professional commitment to excellence in catering
•    Endorse active participation in educational offerings that support the continued competency of Certified Professional Catering Executives
•    Aid employers in identifying qualified catering personnel
•    Enhance the professional image of the catering executive
•    Provide a sense of personal achievement for the advancement of one’s career