Catering Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Catering Manager with a strong background in Industrial Catering to oversee all aspects of catering operations within a high-volume environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing daily catering services, ensuring food quality, maintaining health and safety compliance, driving resale performance, and delivering exceptional customer service.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of a high-volume industrial catering facility.
• Ensure the preparation and delivery of high-quality meals in accordance with company standards.
• Oversee food production, stock control, ordering, and inventory management.
• Manage resale operations, including stock levels, merchandising, pricing, and profitability.
• Coordinate and manage catering functions and special events as required.
• Ensure strict compliance with all Health & Safety, Food Safety, and HACCP regulations.
• Maintain hygiene standards in kitchens, dining areas, and food preparation facilities.
• Supervise, train, and motivate catering staff to achieve operational excellence.
• Prepare staff rosters and manage labour costs effectively.
• Monitor budgets, control food costs, minimise wastage, and improve profitability.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with clients and customers.
• Resolve customer complaints promptly and professionally.
• Produce operational and financial reports as required.
• Ensure all company policies and procedures are adhered to.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Relevant qualification in Catering Management, Hospitality Management, or Food Services (advantageous).
• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Catering Manager within an Industrial Catering environment.
• Proven experience managing high-volume catering operations.
• Strong resale (tuck shop/canteen) management experience.
• Experience managing catering functions and events.
• Sound knowledge of Health & Safety, HACCP, and food hygiene legislation.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost control.
• Computer literate (Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, and catering/stock management systems).
• Valid driver’s licence and own reliable transport preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent organisational and planning abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• High attention to detail.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Customer-focused with excellent service delivery.
• Financial and commercial awareness.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs)

• Efficient management of catering operations.
• Food quality and customer satisfaction.
• Cost control and profitability.
• Resale performance and stock management.
• Health & Safety compliance.
• Staff performance and development.
• Client relationship management.
• Operational efficiency and service excellence.

Remuneration

Market-related salary, dependent on qualifications and experience.

Start Date

Immediate availability is essential. Candidates who are available to commence employment immediately will receive preference.