Catering Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of event planning, the role of catering managers has never been more crucial.

As food and beverage trends evolve, there’s a growing need for skilled professionals who can organize, manage, and execute perfect catering services for a variety of events.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a catering manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the art of catering management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable catering manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Catering Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Catering Managers oversee the operations of catering businesses, including the preparation and serving of meals, coordinating with clients, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and controlling all aspects of a catering operation.

Here are some of the duties and responsibilities of a Catering Manager:

• Meeting with clients to understand and document their catering needs and preferences
• Developing menus in collaboration with the chef, considering factors such as the type of event and the client’s budget
• Organizing and supervising the work of the catering team to ensure that food is prepared and served in a timely manner
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations in the kitchen and other food preparation areas
• Controlling budgets and minimizing expenditure by efficiently managing resources
• Handling customer inquiries and complaints professionally and promptly
• Establishing relationships with vendors and negotiating contracts for food and other supplies
• Conducting regular inventory checks and ordering supplies as necessary
• Recruiting, training, and managing staff to provide high-quality service
• Planning and executing marketing strategies to promote the catering business

 

Catering Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly organized and experienced Catering Manager to plan, organize and oversee our catering services.

The Catering Manager’s responsibilities include developing menus, handling customer inquiries and complaints, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and coordinating the delivery of food supplies.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of customer service, excellent leadership abilities, and a passion for the food and beverage industry.

Ultimately, the role of the Catering Manager is to ensure a high-quality, cost-effective and consistent catering service that exceeds customer expectations.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize and manage all catering operations
• Develop menus in collaboration with chefs
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and health and safety regulations
• Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Coordinate and supervise the work of catering staff
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints
• Monitor catering costs and inventory
• Organize staff schedules and shifts
• Recruit, train and develop team members
• Ensure customer satisfaction by offering excellent customer service

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Catering Manager or similar role in the hospitality industry
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Familiarity with catering and banquet management software
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle and resolve conflicts efficiently
• Knowledge of food sanitation laws
• Strong decision-making skills
• Degree in Hospitality Management or Culinary Schooling is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Catering Manager
• Work Environment: This role typically operates in a hospitality setting such as a hotel, restaurant or event venue. Weekend and evening hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Food and Beverage Director or General Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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 a Catering Manager Do?

Catering Managers primarily work in the hospitality industry, overseeing the operations of businesses that provide food and drink services at events such as weddings, parties, conferences, and large gatherings.

Their main role is to plan, organize, and ensure the successful execution of catering events.

This includes creating menus, coordinating with the kitchen staff, arranging for equipment and supplies, and liaising with clients to understand their specific requirements.

Catering Managers also oversee the staff involved in the catering service, including hiring, training, and managing schedules.

They ensure that all food and drink services adhere to health and safety standards and regulations.

They are often in charge of budget management for each event, which includes negotiating contracts with clients, setting prices for services, and ensuring cost-effective operations without compromising the quality of service.

Catering Managers work closely with clients to ensure their satisfaction, handling any complaints or adjustments as needed.

They are also responsible for promoting their services to attract new clients and maintain relationships with existing ones.

 

Catering Manager Qualifications and Skills

A skilled Catering Manager should have the skills and qualifications that meet your job requirements, including:

• Excellent leadership and management skills to oversee the catering team and ensure they work efficiently to meet deadlines.
• Strong communication skills to liaise with clients and understand their specific catering needs, also to coordinate with the team and other departments.
• Ability to create, plan, and implement catering menus that satisfy client needs and preferences.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple catering events simultaneously, keeping track of details such as guest counts, food quantities, and specific client requests.
• Customer service skills to build relationships with clients and ensure their satisfaction, resolving any issues promptly and professionally.
• High level of creativity for presenting food in an appealing manner.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and hygiene standards to ensure the safety and health of guests.
• Ability to work under pressure and problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations that may arise during catering events.
• Experience with budgeting and financial planning to provide cost-effective catering services.

 

Catering Manager Experience Requirements

Catering Managers are typically required to have a significant amount of experience in the hospitality or culinary industry, with a broad understanding of food preparation, service management and event coordination.

Entry-level Catering Managers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually obtained through positions like Catering Assistant or Event Coordinator.

Such roles provide valuable exposure to the catering sector, including knowledge of food safety, service standards, and customer relations.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have spent time in supervisory roles within the catering or hospitality industry.

They are likely to have honed their skills in menu planning, staff management, budgeting, and contract negotiations, making them eligible for more senior Catering Manager positions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are generally considered for roles that demand greater responsibility, such as Senior Catering Manager or Director of Catering.

These positions often require strong leadership skills, strategic planning abilities, and a track record of successfully managing large-scale events.

 

Catering Manager Education and Training Requirements

Catering Managers often have a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, culinary arts, food service management, or a similar field.

The program will generally cover topics such as food preparation, sanitation, business management, and event planning.

These are all skills critical for a catering manager.

Experience in the food service industry, such as a role as a waiter, cook, or even a dishwasher, is often highly beneficial and may sometimes be preferred over formal education.

In addition to this, many employers require that Catering Managers have a food handler’s card and are certified in food safety.

Some Catering Managers opt to pursue certification from professional organizations, such as the National Restaurant Association.

This certification can demonstrate professional competence and may provide a competitive edge.

Voluntary certification typically requires a combination of work experience and passing an examination.

Additionally, the role requires strong leadership, communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure, which can be developed and improved through on-the-job experience.

 

Catering Manager Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Catering Manager is approximately $48,564 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ substantially based on factors such as the number of years of experience, the location of employment, and the size and stature of the hiring company.

 

Catering Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Catering Manager need?

Catering Managers should possess strong leadership and organizational skills to manage their staff and coordinate events.

They need excellent communication skills to interact with clients, understand their needs, and ensure their expectations are met.

They should also have good problem-solving skills to address any issues that may arise during the preparation or execution of a catering event.

 

Do Catering Managers need a degree?

While having a degree in hospitality management or a related field can be advantageous, it is not always required.

Many Catering Managers start their careers in entry-level positions within the food service industry and gradually work their way up.

However, some employers may prefer candidates with a degree or certificate in a related field.

 

What should you look for in a Catering Manager resume?

A strong Catering Manager resume will showcase experience in food service or event management, including roles where they supervised a team.

Look for evidence of successful event planning and execution, budget management, and customer service.

Certifications in food safety and handling are also valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Catering Manager?

A good Catering Manager is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work well under pressure.

They are customer-focused, understanding the importance of meeting and exceeding client expectations.

They should also be adaptable, able to manage unexpected changes or challenges that may arise during an event.

Leadership skills are also important, as they will be managing and coordinating a team of staff.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Catering Manager?

The difficulty in hiring a Catering Manager can depend on a range of factors, including location, availability of skilled candidates, and the specific requirements of the role.

As the role requires a unique blend of skills including leadership, organization, and customer service, finding the right candidate may pose a challenge.

However, with a clear job description and thorough interview process, it is possible to find a skilled and experienced Catering Manager.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a good look at what it truly means to be a catering manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about preparing food.

It’s about orchestrating memorable culinary experiences, one event at a time.

With our ready-to-use catering manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re now ready to make your move.

But why not go further?

Deepen your understanding with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every meal you cater is part of a larger event.

Let’s create those memorable experiences. Together.

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