James McGovern

Associate Banquet Director

Associate Banquet Director James W. McGovern is a native New Yorker who knew early on that the hospitality industry was in his future: he was fascinated by the tent parties that his grandfather Winslow gave in Southampton, NY, becoming more intrigued after trailing his uncle Jerry Berns, a founding owner of ‘21' Club.

James shares with his knowing clientele a deep appreciation of the Loeb Central Park Boathouse’s contemporary American country club décor, beautifully detailed surroundings overlooking Central Park Lake and its culinary excellence. “At every level of service here, we have a privilege to serve attitude,” he notes.

After graduating from Trinity-Pawling, James was a sought-after night club promoter at Studio 54, Danceteria, and Mudd Club. He packed caviar for his future in-laws who owned Iron Gate Products Company, a '21' subsidiary; two decades later he was appointed ‘21’s private dining sales manager. His three-decade hospitality career spans managerial positions in some of Gotham’s most beloved restaurants including The Supper Club, Sardi's (where he was trained by Vincent Sardi), and Tavern on the Green.

James lives on North Shore of Long Island with his wife Deborah, and enjoys playing tennis, backgammon and walking his German Pinchers around Hempstead Harbor.