The planning, administration, and supervision of the catering operations and services provided by an organization are the responsibilities of the catering manager.
What exactly does a manager of catering do? Common employers | Education and experience requirements | Essential skill sets
Chefs and catering helpers report to catering managers, who oversee their employees. They are accountable for managing the catering operations and services that are provided on a daily basis at establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and resorts. Catering managers are accountable for ensuring that their establishments are operating effectively and keeping an eye on the quality of the food and service that is provided. The aspects of the work that are most crucial include maintaining high standards of cleanliness and client happiness, as well as obtaining excellent quality while staying within the allotted budget. Typical pursuits consist of the following:
menu planning in collaboration with the kitchen staff
ordering supplies
Recruiting, instruction, management, and inspiration of both permanent and temporary employees
arranging shift schedules for employees
ensuring that all of the rules on health and safety are adhered to in a stringent manner, documented, and stored
keeping an eye on the overall quality of the product and service that is being offered
observing budgets and keeping accurate records of both financial and administrative activity.
Unless they are working in location catering, such as in the media sector or event catering, catering managers often do not have to travel as part of their day-to-day responsibilities (eg conferences, weddings and sports events). There are jobs available in other countries, such as aboard cruise ships; you just have to look for them.
The hospitality industry, which includes hotels, restaurants, and resorts, is notorious for its use of shift labor and lengthy, solitary shifts. The majority of catering service operations that are employed by businesses, industries, and institutions adhere to standard office hours.
Promotion opportunities are typically favorable for those who have excellent interpersonal skills and a high degree of desire; nonetheless, a great deal will rely on the individual as well as the organization. There are options for those who want to work for themselves, such as catering managers who may eventually own their own restaurant.
Employers often looking for catering managers
Hotels
Companies that cater
In-house catering services, such as those seen in big corporate environments like company and industrial canteens
Hospitals
Care facilities for the elderly
Prisons
Institutions of higher learning
Attractions for vacationers
Offshore oil and gas rigs, as well as other
Transport services such as airlines and cruise liners are included in this category.
Jobs may be found on the websites of large restaurant chains, hotel groups, and catering firms, as well as on the websites of The Caterer and other job boards like Caterer.com. Jobs can also be found on the websites of The Caterer.
Qualifications and experience are expected of applicants.
Graduate programs are offered by a number of the big hotel chains and larger contracting organizations. These programs are restricted to those who have already earned a degree. On the other hand, a degree is not often expected to be a prerequisite for someone to fill this position.
Employers are interested in applicants who have graduated from any field, but they place a higher value on those who have relevant credentials such as:
supervision of catering and kitchen operations
The management of hospitality
food technology and the scientific study of food
hotel and restaurant management
hospitality, recreation, and the tourist industry
management of international hospitality operations
studies in business and management
economics of the home and nutrition
The training encompasses both the hands-on and administrative parts of the position. Previous experience in the appropriate field of employment is often required. Aspiring catering managers should search for employment in catering outlets such as pubs, restaurants, and fast-food outlets on the weekends and during the holidays on a part-time or seasonal basis in order to get experience. It is necessary to present oneself in a refined manner.
Those who have just graduated from high school may be eligible for on-the-job training in the form of an apprenticeship or by pursuing occupational qualifications such as NVQs or SVQs. There are other diploma certifications that may be earned in hotel management at levels 4 and 5, which are generally considered to be equal to the first year of a degree program (which takes you to the same level as students about to begin the final year of a degree).
Key abilities for catering managers
Superior abilities in both speaking and interacting with others
Abundant abilities in the areas of organization and time management
Decision making skills
Capability to manage in a variety of environments with a primary emphasis on providing excellent service to clients and customers
A solid foundation in both business and commercial acumen
Powerful abilities in leadership and motivation, as well as the capacity to build solid connections with both workers and clients.
The capacity for fast thought, for working under trying conditions, and for maintaining composure in the face of adversity.
Financial, budgeting and stock-taking skills
A familiarity with food, food hygiene (including hazard analysis and crucial control points), as well as the preparation of food.