Catering Service Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of event planning and hospitality, the role of a Catering Service Manager is crucial.

As the demand for memorable and well-organized events rises, so does the need for professionals who can seamlessly coordinate food and beverage services.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Catering Service Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of catering management,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Catering Service Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Catering Service Managers oversee operations related to the provision of food and beverage services for events, ensuring a high standard of customer satisfaction.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Meeting with clients to understand their event needs and expectations
• Planning menus in collaboration with chefs and clients
• Estimating and managing budgets for catering events
• Coordinating and supervising staff to ensure quality service delivery
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
• Maintaining relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Overseeing the setup, service, and clean up of events
• Handling client complaints and resolving issues promptly
• Monitoring industry trends to keep catering services current

 

Catering Service Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Catering Service Manager to join our team.

This role involves managing all aspects of our catering operations, from planning menus to overseeing service at events.

The Catering Service Manager will work closely with clients to plan and execute successful events, ensuring that all food and beverage offerings meet the highest standards of quality, taste, and presentation.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in hospitality and experience in a supervisory role in the catering industry.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and supervise catering events
• Coordinate with clients to determine their event needs and preferences
• Develop menus that meet clients’ needs and budget
• Ensure the quality of food and beverage offerings
• Manage catering staff and coordinate their duties
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
• Manage inventory of supplies and equipment
• Handle customer complaints and resolve issues
• Monitor and control costs
• Prepare reports on catering activities and revenues

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Catering Manager or similar role
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage
• Excellent organizational and planning skills
• Strong leadership and customer service skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations and resolve issues effectively
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations
• Proficiency in MS Office and catering management software
• Degree in Hospitality Management or Culinary Arts is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Catering Service Manager
• Work Environment: This role primarily operates in a professional kitchen or event setting. Some travel may be required for off-site events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Catering Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 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 Service Manager Do?

Catering Service Managers primarily work for hospitality or event management firms, though some may also be self-employed or work for large corporations that host frequent events.

They are responsible for coordinating all aspects of catering services for events such as corporate luncheons, weddings, parties, and other gatherings.

This includes planning menus, hiring and managing staff, overseeing food preparation, and ensuring the highest standards of service.

Catering Service Managers work closely with clients to understand their requirements and preferences, and they need to create customized menus to suit each client’s needs and tastes.

They also need to ensure the food and beverages are prepared and served in a timely manner, and they often oversee the setup and cleanup of the event space.

Catering Service Managers may also handle administrative tasks such as ordering supplies, maintaining inventory, and managing budgets.

They need to ensure they meet health and safety regulations and often need to deal with any customer complaints or issues that arise.

Their ultimate goal is to provide an excellent catering experience that meets and exceeds client expectations.

 

Catering Service Manager Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Catering Service Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with the specific needs of your business, such as:

• Exhibiting excellent organizational and planning skills to efficiently manage catering events and operations.
• Having a strong knowledge of food and beverage operations, safety procedures, and presentation techniques.
• Possessing exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise with clients, staff, and suppliers, understanding and delivering on specific requirements.
• Applying strong leadership and team management skills to oversee a diverse team of chefs, servers, and support staff, ensuring high-quality service at all times.
• Being able to multitask and handle high-stress situations with grace and efficiency, ensuring successful execution of catering events.
• Having a keen eye for detail to ensure high standards of cleanliness, food quality, and service at all times.
• Demonstrating strong budgeting and financial management skills to ensure profitability while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Possessing customer service skills, to handle complaints, concerns or special requests from clients.
• Being physically fit and able to work long hours, especially during peak seasons and high-demand periods.

 

Catering Service Manager Experience Requirements

Catering Service Managers often begin their careers within the hospitality industry, commonly starting in entry-level roles such as a catering assistant or server.

These roles provide hands-on experience with event setup, food preparation, and customer service.

Additionally, a significant portion of Catering Service Managers have a background in culinary arts or hospitality management.

This can be acquired through a vocational school, two-year college, or four-year university.

Some Catering Service Managers also gain experience through an internship or apprenticeship program.

Typically, those applying for Catering Service Manager positions should have at least 2 to 3 years of experience in the catering industry.

This experience should encompass knowledge of food preparation, customer relations, and event management.

For those looking to move into senior roles or manage a large catering team, more than 5 years of experience is usually required.

This experience should include overseeing large-scale events, leading a catering team, and managing budgets.

Candidates with this level of experience may have already held a supervisory or managerial role within the catering or hospitality industry.

 

Catering Service Manager Education and Training Requirements

Catering Service Managers typically have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, culinary arts, food service management or a related field.

These programs equip students with a foundational knowledge of food preparation, sanitation and safety, business management, and event planning.

In addition to their educational qualifications, Catering Service Managers also need to have practical experience in the food service industry, often gained through internships, part-time jobs, or full-time work experience.

Though not always required, certification from associations like the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute or the National Restaurant Association can provide a competitive edge.

These certifications demonstrate a higher level of expertise in food service management and hospitality.

Some employers may require Catering Service Managers to complete a food safety training course and obtain a food handler’s permit or license, the requirements for which may vary by state.

In order to stay updated with the latest trends in the culinary and hospitality industry, many Catering Service Managers attend workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses throughout their careers.

 

Catering Service Manager Salary Expectations

A Catering Service Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $51,500 (USD) per year.

However, this amount may fluctuate depending on years of experience in the industry, the size and prestige of the catering company, as well as the cost of living in the geographical location.

 

Catering Service Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Catering Service Manager need?

Catering Service Managers need strong organizational and leadership skills to coordinate and oversee the performance of their team.

They should have excellent communication skills for interacting with clients, understanding their requirements, and ensuring that their needs are met.

They also need to be good at problem-solving to handle any issues that might arise during service.

 

Do Catering Service Managers need a degree?

While a degree is not mandatory, some employers might prefer candidates with a degree in hospitality management or a related field.

However, significant experience in the catering industry can also be considered.

Certification in food safety management would be an added advantage.

 

What should you look for in a Catering Service Manager’s resume?

First and foremost, look for experience in the catering industry and any managerial roles.

Check for any certifications in food safety or hospitality management.

Skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, customer service, and time management are also essential.

If they have experience working with large-scale events or high-profile clients, that’s a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Catering Service Manager?

A good Catering Service Manager is a proactive leader who can effectively manage their team and handle pressure.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure every aspect of the service is executed flawlessly.

Excellent customer service skills are crucial to understand and meet client expectations.

They should also have a passion for food and service quality.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Catering Service Manager?

The challenge in hiring a Catering Service Manager can vary based on the specifics of the role and the catering services offered by your business.

For high-end or specialized catering services, finding a candidate with the right mix of management skills and specific catering experience can be challenging.

It’s essential to offer competitive salaries and opportunities for career growth to attract top talents.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the secret ingredients to being a successful catering service manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about serving great food.

It’s about orchestrating unforgettable events, one plate at a time.

With our must-have catering service manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Enhance your skills further with our job description generator. It’s your secret recipe for creating the perfect job listings or refining your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every successful event is a testament to meticulous planning and execution.

Let’s cook up some unforgettable experiences. Together.

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