How to Be Catering Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 16, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increased demand of catering services in the market has caused an increase in the need for experienced Catering Managers. These professionals are responsible for overseeing all aspects of catering operations, from budgeting and menu planning to supervising staff and ensuring quality of service. By taking into account the customer's needs and preferences, the Catering Manager is able to create a menu that meets their expectations, while also making sure that the food is prepared and served in a timely manner.

the Catering Manager is expected to manage the inventory and order supplies, and ensure that all staff members are up to date with health and safety regulations. With their expertise, the Catering Manager is able to provide outstanding customer service, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma. A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for a career as a catering manager.
Complete a Postsecondary Degree. Most employers prefer to hire a catering manager with at least an associate's degree. Catering management degree programs are offered at many community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Gain Work Experience. The majority of employers prefer to hire a catering manager with at least two years of experience in the hospitality industry. Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work are all opportunities for gaining experience.
Obtain Certification. Although not required, some employers prefer to hire a catering manager who has a certification from a professional organization. Certifications can be obtained from organizations such as the American Hotel & Lodging Association or the National Restaurant Association.
Pursue Management Experience. Many employers prefer to hire a catering manager who has experience in management roles. Working as an assistant catering manager or in a supervisory role at an event venue or restaurant can provide job seekers with the necessary experience and skills.
Develop Interpersonal Skills. A successful catering manager must have excellent interpersonal skills in order to effectively communicate with clients, vendors, and staff members. Developing strong customer service skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure can be beneficial for a career in catering management.

Catering managers require a variety of skills and qualifications in order to be successful. To begin with, they must have a good understanding of the catering industry, including food preparation techniques, food safety protocols, and menu planning. they need to possess strong organizational and interpersonal skills in order to effectively manage staff, coordinate events, and handle customer inquiries.

They also need to have a basic understanding of accounting, as they will be responsible for tracking financials and budgeting for events. Finally, catering managers should have excellent communication and problem-solving skills in order to anticipate potential issues and proactively address them. With the right combination of skill and qualifications, a catering manager can be successful in their role and contribute to the success of their business.

You may want to check Banquet Catering Manager, Line Cook, Catering, and Kitchen Catering Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and implement catering operations policies and procedures.
Maintain a customer-focused approach in all catering services.
Manage the catering team and ensure that staff are properly trained and supervised.
Source and manage catering suppliers to ensure quality and value for money is achieved.
Develop and manage budget for catering operations, including forecasting and tracking costs.
Monitor customer feedback and ensure customer satisfaction goals are met.
Develop and manage menus for catered events.
Manage the ordering, storage, preparation, and presentation of food products.
Oversee food safety and sanitation practices in accordance with local health codes.
Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with vendors.
Create systems to track inventory, supplies, and equipment.
Coordinate with other departments, such as marketing and sales, to promote catering services.
Collaborate with event planners to ensure successful catered events.
Identify opportunities for increasing revenue through catering services.
Monitor competitor activity and adjust strategies accordingly.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent organizational and communication skills
Ability to prioritize tasks and multitask
Knowledge of event planning, catering, and hospitality services
Strong attention to detail
Creativity and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage budgets and adhere to financial guidelines
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations
Leadership qualities and team-building skills
Ability to work under pressure and remain flexible
Computer literacy in Microsoft Office Programs and POS systems

Organizational and communication skills are essential for a Catering Manager to be successful. Being able to coordinate events, manage staff, and oversee operations requires an ability to plan and prioritize tasks. In addition, the Catering Manager must possess the capacity to communicate clearly and effectively with customers, vendors, and staff.

This includes being able to effectively explain and plan a menu, explain the services offered, and answer inquiries in a timely manner. Furthermore, the Catering Manager must have the ability to handle customer complaints in a professional manner, as well as maintain a positive attitude in stressful situations. Having these skills will ensure that the Catering Manager is able to successfully manage catering operations and provide excellent customer service.

As a result, customers will be satisfied with their experience and will be more likely to return in the future.

On-Site Catering Manager, Waiter/Waitress, Catering, and Bartender, Catering are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in catering management?
How would you handle a difficult customer?
What strategies do you use to ensure successful event planning?
Describe your experience with menu and pricing development?
How do you ensure the safety and sanitation of catering services?
How do you manage customer expectations and complaints?
What measures do you take to ensure customer satisfaction?
Describe how you would handle a budget crisis.
What is your approach to creating and maintaining relationships with vendors?
How do you stay organized and handle multiple tasks?

Common Tools in Industry

Event Management Software. A software solution that helps Catering Managers to coordinate and plan events, including tracking budgets, scheduling staff, and managing menus. (eg: Eventbrite)
Recipe Software. A software solution that helps Catering Managers manage recipes, portion sizes, and costs associated with each dish. (eg: Cookn Recipe Software)
Inventory Management Software. A software solution that helps Catering Managers track and manage inventory, including setting up re-order points for supplies. (eg: Fishbowl Inventory)
Online Ordering Systems. A software solution that allows customers to order catering services online. (eg: ChowNow)
Point of Sale Systems. A software solution that allows Catering Managers to track sales, process payments, and manage customer data in one place. (eg: Square POS)
Scheduling Software. A software solution that helps Catering Managers to create and manage staff schedules. (eg: When I Work)
Customer Relationship Management Software. A software solution that helps Catering Managers track customer data, including contact information and ordering history. (eg: Salesforce CRM)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association for Catering and Events (NACE)
International Caterers Association (ICA)
Special Events Society (SES)
International Live Events Association (ILEA)
American Culinary Federation (ACF)
National Restaurant Association (NRA)
International Special Events Society (ISES)
Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA)
National Association of Catering Executives (NACE)
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)

We also have Hospitality Catering Manager, Beverage Server, Catering, and Dietary Aide, Catering jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Food and Beverage Management. The process of planning, organizing, controlling and directing the operations of food and beverage services within an organization.
Menu Planning. The process of creating a menu that meets the needs of customers while providing cost-effective and profitable meals.
Food Cost Control. The process of monitoring and controlling the costs associated with the preparation of food.
Event Planning. The process of organizing and coordinating events such as weddings, corporate functions, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
Vendor Management. The process of selecting, negotiating contracts with, and managing vendors to ensure quality products and services at competitive prices.
Inventory Management. The process of tracking and managing inventory to ensure the right product is available in the right quantities at the right time.
Food Safety. The practice of maintaining a safe food environment and preventing food-borne illnesses by adhering to food safety regulations and guidelines.
Customer Service. The practice of providing excellent customer service by meeting customer needs and resolving any issues that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the average salary of a Catering Manager? A1: The average salary of a Catering Manager is approximately $53,000 per year. Q2: What are the primary responsibilities of a Catering Manager? A2: The primary responsibilities of a Catering Manager involve managing the catering operation of a business, including ordering supplies, creating menus, and hiring and training staff. Q3: How many years of experience are required to become a Catering Manager? A3: Generally, 3-5 years of experience in food service management is required to become a Catering Manager. Q4: What types of events does a Catering Manager typically manage? A4: A Catering Manager typically manages events such as weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and other special occasions. Q5: What qualifications are needed to become a Catering Manager? A5: To become a Catering Manager, one must have excellent organizational, customer service, and communication skills. Additionally, knowledge of food safety regulations and ability to follow health regulations is a must.

Web Resources

Catering Manager - Marian University www.marianuniversity.edu
Catering Operations Manager - jobs.jhu.edu jobs.jhu.edu
Catering Operations Manager - Housing & Hospitality housingandhospitality.ucla.edu