Catering Services Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

catering services manager job description

In the world of event planning and hospitality, the importance of a Catering Services Manager is paramount.

As culinary trends continue to evolve, the demand for skillful individuals who can coordinate, manage, and provide exceptional catering services grows ever greater.

But what does a Catering Services Manager truly do?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker looking to understand the depth of this role,
  • A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
  • Or simply curious about the intricacies of catering management,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Catering Services Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Catering Services Managers are responsible for overseeing all aspects of a catering operation, including planning menus, managing staff, ensuring food safety procedures are adhered to, and coordinating with clients and vendors.

They are responsible for providing a high level of customer service and ensuring events run smoothly and efficiently.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

  • Meeting with clients to discuss event details, menus, and pricing
  • Planning and coordinating event logistics such as equipment, staff, and transportation requirements
  • Developing and implementing menus in line with client needs and dietary requirements
  • Managing and training catering staff, including hiring, scheduling, and performance management
  • Ensuring food safety and sanitation procedures are followed according to regulatory standards
  • Supervising the preparation and presentation of food
  • Coordinating with vendors and suppliers to ensure all necessary items are available for each event
  • Managing budgets and financial reports, and ensuring payments are processed promptly
  • Resolving customer complaints or issues in a professional and timely manner

 

Catering Services Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Catering Services Manager to oversee the planning and execution of catering events.

The Catering Services Manager will coordinate with clients, manage staff, and work with food suppliers to ensure that each event is successful and satisfying.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader with excellent problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for detail.

They will be responsible for maintaining client relationships, adhering to budgets, hiring and training staff, and ensuring that all events are executed flawlessly.

 

Responsibilities

  • Meeting with clients to plan and coordinate details of events
  • Preparing and managing catering budgets
  • Hiring, training, and scheduling catering staff
  • Working with food suppliers to ensure quality and cost-efficiency
  • Handling customer complaints and queries
  • Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
  • Managing inventory of catering equipment and supplies
  • Preparing reports on operations and financial performance

 

Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Catering Manager or similar role in the hospitality industry
  • Excellent organizational and leadership skills
  • Strong customer service and problem-solving abilities
  • Knowledge of food preparation and presentation techniques
  • Familiarity with health and safety regulations
  • Good financial management skills
  • A degree in hospitality management or a related field is preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Catering Services Manager
  • Work Environment: This position requires a significant amount of time spent on the feet, and may require weekend and holiday work, as well as travel to event locations.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Catering 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 Services Manager Do?

Catering Services Managers work in a variety of settings including hotels, restaurants, and event venues.

Their role primarily involves planning and overseeing the food and drink services for a range of events such as weddings, parties, conferences, and business meetings.

They closely work with clients to understand their needs and expectations for the event, including the selection of menu, arrangement of tables, decoration, and other specifics.

A Catering Services Manager is responsible for ensuring that the food and beverages are prepared and served in a timely and efficient manner.

This involves coordinating with chefs, bartenders, waitstaff, and other kitchen staff.

They are also responsible for monitoring the quality of food and service, maintaining health and safety standards, and ensuring the client’s satisfaction.

Catering Services Managers also take care of administrative tasks such as budgeting, managing client invoices, and sourcing suppliers.

In addition to these, they may also be responsible for hiring and training staff, managing inventories, and overseeing the cleanliness and organization of the catering facilities.

 

Catering Services Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Catering Services Manager should possess a range of both technical and soft skills to effectively manage events and provide high-quality service, including:

  • Strong leadership and management skills to direct catering staff and oversee operations efficiently.
  • Exceptional customer service skills to interact with clients, understand their requirements and ensure their satisfaction.
  • Proficiency in budgeting and financial management to control costs and maintain profitability.
  • Ability to multitask and manage stress, especially when handling multiple events or during peak business hours.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively coordinate with staff, clients, and vendors.
  • Knowledge of food safety standards and regulations to ensure the safety and hygiene of the food served.
  • Problem-solving skills to quickly address and resolve any issues that may arise during service.
  • Ability to plan and organize events, ensuring all aspects run smoothly and meet client expectations.
  • Experience in menu development and food presentation to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.
  • Physical stamina for standing for long hours and overseeing the operations closely.

 

Catering Services Manager Experience Requirements

The journey to becoming a Catering Services Manager typically begins with a diploma or degree in hospitality, culinary arts, or a related field.

This educational background provides foundational knowledge of food service operations.

Entry-level candidates often gain experience through internships or part-time roles in the catering or hospitality industry.

These roles could be as Catering Assistants, Sous Chefs, or Event Coordinators, where they learn about menu planning, food preparation, and customer service.

Candidates with 1-3 years of experience may move into roles such as Catering Supervisor or Assistant Manager.

In these roles, they not only continue to refine their culinary and customer service skills, but also start gaining experience in team management, budgeting, and event planning.

Those with more than 3-5 years of experience are often considered qualified for a Catering Services Manager position.

By this time, they would have gained substantial knowledge of food and beverage service, team leadership, event management, as well as health and safety regulations.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience may be ready for senior managerial roles or may even consider starting their own catering business.

At this level, the individual would be expected to have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of catering services, including business development, client relationship management, and strategic planning.

 

Catering Services Manager Education and Training Requirements

Catering Services Managers typically possess a degree or diploma in hospitality management, culinary arts, or a related field.

Their education often includes courses in food service management, food safety, and nutrition, along with classes in business, accounting, and human resources.

In addition to the formal education, Catering Services Managers usually require several years of experience in the food service or hospitality industry, often starting in entry-level positions and working their way up.

While not always required, some Catering Services Managers may choose to earn certifications in food service management or safety, which can enhance their professional credibility.

Certain roles may require specialized training or knowledge in specific types of cuisine or event planning.

Continuing education and skills development are also important, as Catering Services Managers need to stay updated on food trends, dietary restrictions, and regulations pertaining to the catering and hospitality industry.

 

Catering Services Manager Salary Expectations

A Catering Services Manager earns an average salary of $54,891 (USD) per year.

The actual income may vary depending on factors such as experience in the industry, the size and location of the establishment, and the scope of responsibilities within the role.

 

Catering Services Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Catering Services Manager need?

A Catering Services Manager should have excellent organizational and managerial skills to oversee all the aspects of catering operations.

They should also possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to coordinate with clients, vendors, and team members.

Proficiency in budgeting and event planning is critical, along with a sound knowledge of food and beverage services.

 

Do Catering Services Managers need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, many employers prefer Catering Services Managers with a degree or diploma in hospitality management, culinary arts, or a related field.

An understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations, often gained through certification programs, is also essential.

Relevant work experience in catering or food service industry can be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a Catering Services Manager resume?

When hiring a Catering Services Manager, look for a blend of education and experience in the hospitality or catering industry.

The resume should highlight their managerial skills, budgeting abilities, and knowledge of food and beverage services.

Certifications in food safety and sanitation, event planning, and customer service can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Catering Services Manager?

A good Catering Services Manager is detail-oriented and highly organized, able to handle multiple tasks at once without compromising on quality.

They should have excellent customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure.

Creativity and problem-solving skills are also important, as they often need to come up with innovative solutions to meet clients’ needs and expectations.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Catering Services Manager?

It can be challenging to hire a Catering Services Manager due to the specific combination of skills and experience required for the role.

The candidate needs to have a strong understanding of the catering industry, along with managerial and customer service skills.

Therefore, it is essential to offer a competitive salary and benefits package to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve served up a slice of what it really means to be a Catering Services Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about preparing food.

It’s about creating memorable culinary experiences, one dish at a time.

With our handy Catering Services Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to step up to the plate.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next course to meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every meal is a part of a grander event.

Let’s cook up that future. Together.

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