Catering Manager

Education Authority; Larne; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Catering Manager to lead kitchen operations and deliver exceptional food services. This role involves overseeing menu planning, ensuring compliance with food safety standards, and managing a dedicated team. The ideal candidate will possess strong culinary skills and a passion for quality service. Join a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and teamwork, providing an opportunity to make a significant impact on the dining experience for children and staff alike. If you're ready to take the next step in your catering career, this position offers a rewarding challenge.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a catering management role with leadership skills.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and menu planning.

Responsibilities

• Manage kitchen operations and ensure high-quality food service.
• Supervise staff and conduct training to maintain service standards.

Skills

Culinary Skills

Team Leadership

Food Safety Compliance

Menu Planning

Budget Management

Education

Culinary Degree

Food Safety Certification

Tools

Kitchen Equipment

Food Management Software

Job description

JOB TITLE: Catering Manager

REPORTS TO: Regional Operations Manager

RESPONSIBLE FOR: Catering Team Members

JOB PURPOSE

The Catering Manager is responsible for the efficient day-to-day management of the kitchen. Leadership and team participation are essential to provide a quality catering service to our children, young people, and staff.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Service Delivery

• Execute skilled cooking activities and innovation connected to the full range of menu provisions, including menu preparation, portion control, plating presentation, special dietary meals, texture modification for special diets (IDDSI), theme days/events, and function catering where appropriate.
• Organise and supervise all aspects of food service, including service points and transportation of meals if required.
• Manage dining centre kitchens and production kitchens.
• Follow EA policies and procedures for safe cooking and food service to meet current food safety legislation standards.
• Be aware of allergen and dietary requirements; keep the Allergen Matrix updated.
• Record food temperatures and complete records as required.
• Manage deliveries, ordering, storage, and stock-take to ensure food safety and minimize wastage.
• Ensure safe operation of kitchen equipment and report defects.
• Report incidents such as fire, loss, damage, unfit food, or pest infestation.
• Secure premises as needed.
• Promote the catering service to increase meal uptake, including theme days and events.
• Establish effective communication with the school regarding service delivery.
• Investigate and report customer complaints to the Regional Operations Manager.
• Manage risk assessments, including Fire Risk Assessment.
• Create a friendly atmosphere and handle feedback professionally.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Regional Operations Manager.

People Management

• Manage teams to deliver high-quality service.
• Supervise and direct staff, including duties and work rotas; in transporting kitchens, oversee Catering Assistants and operational issues.
• Implement policies related to staff issues, including disciplinary, grievance, attendance, and return-to-work processes.
• Participate in staff recruitment and support investigations related to grievances or disciplinary actions.
• Induct new staff and monitor probation periods; report issues to the Regional Operations Manager.
• Conduct training and maintain training records.
• Hold regular staff meetings for effective communication.
• Manage staff performance and conduct appraisals with targets.

Financial

• Monitor financial performance, keep costs within budget, and assist with financial procedures.
• Handle clerical duties such as ordering, bookwork, and accident reporting.
• Manage cash transactions following EA procedures.
• Oversee resources including food, labor, overheads, and equipment, ensuring proper procedures are followed.

General Responsibilities

• Comply with legislation, regulations, codes of practice, HACCP, and health and safety standards including COSHH and Natasha's Law.
• Perform administrative tasks as required.
• Maintain personal hygiene and appearance; ensure staff adhere to uniform policies.
• Attend scheduled training and team meetings, including during school closures.
• Promote EA values and ethos, and maintain good customer relations.
• Follow the EA staff code of conduct.

This job description is subject to review and may include additional duties to ensure smooth kitchen operations. The post-holder is also expected to promote equality and dignity at work in accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998).

To view the summary of terms and conditions for this post, click here.