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

Jan 25, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The hospitality catering manager plays a crucial role in the successful execution of events. As the manager, they are responsible for overseeing all aspects of food and beverage services, from menu planning to staffing and budgeting. When done correctly, their efforts can provide guests with an exceptional dining experience, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and a positive reputation for the event.

However, when not managed properly, catering can result in a substandard experience, causing guests to become dissatisfied and leading to a decrease in revenue. Therefore, it is essential that hospitality catering managers have a thorough understanding of the needs of their clients, the food and beverage industry, and the proper management of staff and resources in order to successfully provide a memorable experience for their guests.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Many employers require candidates for hospitality catering manager positions to have at least a bachelor's degree in hospitality management or a related field such as business administration or marketing.
Gain Experience. Working in the hospitality industry can help you gain the experience necessary to become a hospitality catering manager. Consider working as a server, host, bartender, or banquet manager in order to gain experience in the industry.
Obtain Certification. While certification is not required to become a hospitality catering manager, it can help you stand out from other job candidates. You can obtain certification through organizations like the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) or the Academy of Foodservice Professionals (AFP).
Develop Leadership Skills. As a hospitality catering manager, you will be responsible for leading and motivating your team. Consider taking a course on leadership to learn the skills necessary to manage a team of hospitality professionals.
Get Familiar with Technology. Staying up to date with the latest technology used in the hospitality industry is important for hospitality catering managers. Consider taking classes on hospitality software, such as reservation systems and point of sale systems, to stay up to date with the industry.
Network. Networking with professionals in the hospitality industry can help you find job opportunities and expand your knowledge of the industry. Consider joining professional organizations and attending industry events to build relationships and stay informed.

The success of a Hospitality Catering Manager is dependent on having the ideal combination of skills, experience and knowledge. A strong understanding of hospitality operations, food safety and nutrition, and customer service are essential for being capable in a managerial role. Additionally, being able to effectively negotiate contracts, manage staff, and create attractive menus is key for creating an exceptional catering experience for guests. By having these skills, experience and knowledge, a Hospitality Catering Manager is able to provide quality service, maintain high standards of cleanliness, and create successful events that leave a lasting impression on customers.

You may want to check Corporate Catering Supervisor, Kitchen Steward, Catering, and Executive Sous Chef, Catering for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and manage catering menus, including pricing and special promotions.
Manage catering staff, including interviewing, hiring, scheduling and training.
Monitor catering costs and ensure that all events are within budget.
Liaise with vendors to ensure quality of food and beverages for all events.
Prepare invoices for clients and ensure timely payment for services rendered.
Develop and implement marketing strategies to increase catering sales.
Ensure compliance with all safety and sanitation regulations in the preparation and service of food and beverages.
Handle customer complaints and inquiries regarding catering services.
Oversee food and beverage inventory to ensure sufficient supplies are available for all events.
Organize and coordinate catering events, including booking venues, arranging decorations and setting up service areas.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
Highly skilled in menu planning, food preparation, and presentation
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to delegate tasks effectively
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Proficient in hospitality management software
Understanding of cost control and budgeting
Ability to work with a diverse team of staff
Knowledge of local health codes and regulations
Ability to develop and implement catering policies

The key to success as a Hospitality Catering Manager is to possess strong organizational and customer service skills. Effective organization is essential to managing a successful catering event, as it ensures that all vendors are contacted on time and all necessary supplies are available. customer service skills are critical to ensure that guests have an enjoyable experience and that their needs are met.

A Hospitality Catering Manager must also be able to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively, as well as have excellent communication skills to effectively coordinate with both clients and vendors. Finally, a Hospitality Catering Manager must have a strong eye for detail, so that all details of the event are accounted for and no details are overlooked. With these essential skills, a Hospitality Catering Manager can ensure the success of an event and provide guests with an unforgettable experience.

Executive Catering Chef, Food and Beverage Director, Catering, and Corporate Banquet Chef, Catering are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How do you manage a large catering event?
What experience do you have in budgeting and forecasting for catering events?
Describe a time when you had to manage a difficult customer or situation in the hospitality industry?
How do you ensure quality and safety standards are met for each catering event?
What strategies do you use to develop new catering menus?
How do you work with vendors and suppliers?
How do you motivate and lead a team of catering staff?
What challenges have you faced while managing a large catering event?
How do you ensure all catering staff are adequately trained?
How would you ensure customer satisfaction during a large catering event?

Common Tools in Industry

Point of Sale (POS) System. A system used to record sales transactions at the point of purchase. (eg: Square)
Food Cost Calculator. A tool used to calculate the cost of ingredients used in preparing a dish. (eg: EZChef)
Inventory Management System. A system used to track and manage food, beverage, and other hospitality supplies. (eg: Orderly)
Event Management Software. A tool used to plan and manage events, including catering services. (eg: Aventri)
Scheduling Software. A tool used to organize and schedule staff members for catering events. (eg: When I Work)
Recipe Management System. A system used to manage recipes and nutritional information for menu items. (eg: Cook'n)
Menu Design Software. A tool used to create attractive menu designs and layouts. (eg: Canva)
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System. A tool used to store customer data and track customer interactions. (eg: Salesforce)
Revenue Management System. A system used to optimize pricing and maximize profits from catering services. (eg: Revcaster)
Analytics Software. A tool used to analyze catering data, such as sales performance and customer feedback. (eg: Tableau)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Restaurant Association
National Association of Catering Executives
American Catering and Event Association
International Caterers Association
National Association for Catering and Events
Professional Convention Management Association
International Special Events Society
Canadian Caterers Association
Society of Foodservice Management
Meeting Planners International

We also have Catering Assistant, Hotel Catering Manager, and Waiter/Waitress, Catering jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Banquet Manager. A banquet manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of events, meetings, and conferences. They ensure that all catering needs are met, including menu selection, staff scheduling, and budget management.
Event Planning. Event planning is the process of organizing, managing, and executing events such as weddings, parties, conferences, and concerts. It involves coordinating with vendors, selecting venues, creating a budget, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly.
Menu Planning. Menu planning is the process of deciding which dishes to serve at an event or meal. It involves analyzing dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, budget constraints, and other factors to come up with a menu that meets the needs of all guests.
Food & Beverage Management. Food and beverage management is the process of overseeing food preparation and service in a restaurant, hotel, or other foodservice establishment. It includes menu planning, budgeting, staffing, inventory management, and quality control.
Catering Services. Catering services involve providing food service to guests at an event or meeting. This includes menu planning, food preparation, and service.
Cost Control. Cost control is the process of controlling expenses within a business in order to maximize profits. It involves budgeting, tracking costs, and making decisions based on financial data.
Hospitality Management. Hospitality management is the process of overseeing the operations of a hospitality business such as a hotel or restaurant. It involves managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, and creating an overall positive experience for guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Hospitality Catering Manager do?

A Hospitality Catering Manager is responsible for planning and organizing food and beverage services for events such as conferences, weddings, and parties. They typically plan menus, coordinate staff, and manage the budget for catering services.

What qualifications are necessary to be a Hospitality Catering Manager?

To be a Hospitality Catering Manager, you should have a relevant qualification in hospitality management or a related field as well as several years of experience in food and beverage services.

What skills are important for a Hospitality Catering Manager?

A Hospitality Catering Manager should have excellent organizational, budgeting, and customer service skills. They should also be able to work well under pressure, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and manage a team of catering staff.

What are the responsibilities of a Hospitality Catering Manager?

The main responsibilities of a Hospitality Catering Manager include planning menus, coordinating staff, managing budgets, and ensuring that all safety and hygiene regulations are met. They also need to be able to respond to customer complaints and feedback.

How many staff does a Hospitality Catering Manager typically manage?

The number of staff managed by a Hospitality Catering Manager depends on the size and type of event they are working on. Generally speaking, they may manage anywhere from 5 to 50 staff members.