Airline Catering Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

airline catering manager job description

In the dynamic world of aviation, the role of an Airline Catering Manager has never been more crucial.

As the airline industry progresses, the demand for skilled professionals capable of managing, improving, and ensuring the quality of in-flight meals continues to soar.

But let’s delve deeper: What does it truly mean to be an Airline Catering Manager?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
  • A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
  • Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of airline catering management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Airline Catering Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Airline Catering Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Airline Catering Managers are responsible for overseeing the provision of food and beverages for flights, ensuring high standards of quality and safety.

They are often liaising with flight crew, kitchen staff, and suppliers to make sure all catering needs are met efficiently and satisfactorily.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

  • Planning and coordinating food and beverage services for multiple flights
  • Ensuring all food and beverage offerings meet airline’s quality standards
  • Working closely with chefs and other kitchen staff to plan menus
  • Managing and tracking inventory of food, beverages, and other catering supplies
  • Ensuring all catering operations comply with food safety regulations
  • Training and supervising catering staff
  • Collaborating with flight crew to ensure seamless delivery of services
  • Negotiating and managing contracts with food and beverage suppliers
  • Addressing and resolving any issues or complaints related to catering services
  • Developing and maintaining budgets for catering operations

 

Airline Catering Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a skilled and detail-oriented Airline Catering Manager to oversee our airline’s food service operations.

The Catering Manager’s responsibilities include planning, organizing, and developing the overall operation of the food service department, ensuring maximum customer satisfaction, team member performance, and financial results.

The successful candidate should have a comprehensive understanding of food handling and sanitation standards, experience managing large service staff, and a proven track record in the airline catering industry.

 

Responsibilities

  • Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the workers and resources of the catering department for the efficient, well-prepared, and profitable service of food and beverages.
  • Oversee food and beverage provision for functions and events.
  • Manage daily operations and resolve operational problems.
  • Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation food handling procedures.
  • Monitor and assess service and satisfaction trends, respond to customer inquiries and implement innovative strategies to improve service.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor department budget, and manage expenditures.
  • Create, implement, and evaluate long-term departmental goals and strategies.
  • Recruit, train, manage, and evaluate catering staff.
  • Liaise with flight crew and ground staff to ensure the seamless transition of meals and beverages.

 

Qualifications

  • Proven work experience as a catering manager, preferably within the airline industry.
  • Strong leadership, motivational and people skills.
  • Demonstrated experience in budget preparation and cost control.
  • Excellent knowledge of food safety regulations and practices.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and catering management software.
  • Effective communication and negotiation skills.
  • BSc degree in Business Administration, Hotel/Hospitality Management or relevant field.

 

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Airline Catering Manager
  • Work Environment: Fast-paced and dynamic. Requires interaction with a wide variety of people on a daily basis.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of In-flight Services.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Airline Catering Manager Do?

Airline Catering Managers typically work for airline companies or catering service providers whose primary clients are airlines.

They could also be self-employed individuals providing catering services for charter flights or private jets.

They coordinate with kitchen staff, food suppliers, and airline representatives to ensure the preparation and delivery of meals and beverages for flights.

This involves planning menus, calculating the number of meals required, and ensuring that meals are prepared on time and to the required standard.

Their job is to make sure that the meals provided meet the dietary requirements and preferences of passengers, taking into account factors such as cultural preferences and allergies.

Airline Catering Managers also need to ensure that meals are packaged and transported in a way that preserves their quality and prevents contamination.

They are responsible for managing food wastage and ensuring that the catering operations comply with health and safety regulations.

In addition, they are responsible for managing the budget for the catering department, negotiating contracts with suppliers, and managing staff, which can include hiring, training, and scheduling employees.

The Airline Catering Manager’s role is crucial in enhancing passengers’ in-flight experience and could potentially influence customer satisfaction and loyalty to the airline.

 

Airline Catering Manager Qualifications and Skills

An effective Airline Catering Manager should possess a unique blend of skills and qualifications that enable them to ensure the smooth running of catering operations, including:

  • Strong organizational skills to manage and oversee various aspects of airline catering, such as menu planning, food preparation, and staff coordination.
  • Excellent knowledge about food safety standards and hygiene regulations to ensure compliance and maintain the health and safety of customers.
  • Superb interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with airline staff, catering employees, and suppliers, fostering a positive working environment.
  • Problem-solving skills to address and resolve any issues that may arise promptly and effectively, minimizing disruption to services.
  • Financial acumen to manage budgets, control costs, and make informed business decisions that improve efficiency and profitability.
  • Leadership skills to inspire and lead a team, ensuring high standards of food quality and service are consistently met.
  • A keen attention to detail to ensure that all meals meet the specific dietary requirements and preferences of passengers.
  • Customer service skills to understand and meet the expectations of airlines and their passengers, aiming for high levels of customer satisfaction.

 

Airline Catering Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level airline catering managers typically have 1 to 2 years of experience in the food and beverage or hospitality industry.

This experience could be gained through internships, part-time roles, or full-time positions in relevant fields such as restaurant management, hotel catering, or institutional food service.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have more specialized skills and knowledge related to airline catering.

This could include experience with inflight meal planning and preparation, knowledge of food safety regulations, and familiarity with airline industry standards and procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have a solid background in managing large-scale catering operations, and may also have experience leading teams, overseeing budgeting and cost control, and liaising with airlines on meal service details.

At this level, they may be prepared for senior management roles or positions involving strategic planning and development for an airline’s catering services.

In addition to practical experience, potential airline catering managers may also benefit from having professional certifications in food safety, culinary arts, or hospitality management.

Some airlines may also require their catering managers to have completed specialized training programs related to inflight catering or aviation hospitality.

 

Airline Catering Manager Education and Training Requirements

Airline Catering Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, business administration, or a related field.

This job role also requires a strong background in food service operations, which could be gained through both academic and professional experiences.

Many organizations prefer candidates with prior experience in a managerial position within the catering or food service industry.

Formal culinary training or a degree in culinary arts can be advantageous, as knowledge of food safety regulations and culinary practices is crucial in this role.

Some positions may require Airline Catering Managers to have a Master’s degree in business administration or hospitality management, especially for higher-level management roles.

Certifications in food safety, such as the ServSafe certification, and in management could be beneficial.

The role also requires excellent organizational and leadership skills, and the ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends in the airline catering industry are highly encouraged.

 

Airline Catering Manager Salary Expectations

An Airline Catering Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $62,457 (USD) per year.

The actual income may differ based on factors such as years of experience, the size of the airline, and the location of the airline’s base.

 

Airline Catering Manager Job Description FAQs

What are the key responsibilities of an Airline Catering Manager?

Airline Catering Managers are primarily responsible for managing the operation and coordination of the catering unit.

They oversee the preparation and provision of food and beverages to flights, manage teams of catering assistants, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

They are also responsible for maintaining strong relationships with airlines and handling any customer complaints or issues.

 

What qualifications are needed to become an Airline Catering Manager?

While a degree is not strictly required, many Airline Catering Managers have a degree in hospitality, business management, or a related field.

Previous experience in the catering or airline industry is also essential.

In addition, knowledge of food safety regulations and strong leadership skills are crucial for this role.

 

What skills are important for an Airline Catering Manager?

Airline Catering Managers should have strong leadership and team management skills, as they will be in charge of managing a team of catering assistants.

They should also have excellent communication and negotiation skills, as they will need to liaise with airline representatives and manage customer complaints.

An understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations is also important.

 

What should you look for in an Airline Catering Manager’s resume?

Firstly, look for relevant experience in the catering or airline industry.

Knowledge of food preparation and safety regulations should be clearly indicated.

Demonstrable leadership skills and a track record of successfully managing a team are also important.

Additional qualifications in business or hospitality management would be a bonus.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Airline Catering Manager?

Finding a suitable candidate for the role of Airline Catering Manager can be challenging due to the specific nature of the job.

It requires a unique combination of skills in catering, management, and customer service, as well as a deep understanding of the airline industry.

Therefore, it may take some time to find a candidate who fulfills all these requirements.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the role of an airline catering manager.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about serving meals in the sky.

It’s about orchestrating a delightful dining experience at 35,000 feet.

With our reliable airline catering manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take flight.

But why stop there?

Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your co-pilot in creating precise job listings or refining your resume to take it to new heights.

Remember:

Every in-flight meal is a piece of the larger journey.

Let’s take to the skies. Together.

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