Catering Operations Manager

Independent Food; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A catering services company in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Catering Operations Manager to oversee daily operations and ensure exceptional service delivery. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in catering or hospitality, with strong leadership and financial management skills. Responsibilities include managing logistics, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with health standards. This position offers an opportunity to enhance client relationships and innovate service offerings.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in catering, hospitality, or food service operations.
• At least 2 years in a managerial role.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all catering operations from planning to execution.
• Supervise and manage the catering team.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients.
• Develop and manage catering budgets for profitability.
• Work closely with sales and event planning teams.
• Evaluate operations to identify areas for improvement.

Skills

Strong leadership and team management abilities

Excellent organizational and multitasking skills

Exceptional communication and customer service skills

Financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost management

Knowledge of food safety regulations and catering logistics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Job description

Position Summary

The Catering Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of catering services, ensuring exceptional service delivery, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. This role requires a balance of leadership, planning, and hands‑on management to execute events seamlessly and maintain the company’s high standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operations Management

• Oversee all catering operations, from planning to execution, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows.
• Manage catering logistics, including menu development, equipment, and staffing requirements.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food hygiene standards, and company policies.

2. Team Leadership

• Supervise and manage the catering team, including chefs, servers, and support staff.
• Recruit, train, and develop team members to deliver high‑quality service.
• Schedule and assign tasks to ensure adequate staffing for all events.

3. Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during the planning and execution phases.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their needs, customize menus, and provide tailored solutions.
• Address and resolve client concerns promptly to ensure satisfaction.

4. Financial Oversight

• Develop and manage catering budgets, ensuring profitability for each event.
• Track expenses, negotiate vendor contracts, and optimize cost efficiencies.
• Prepare reports on financial performance, event feedback, and operational metrics.

5. Event Coordination

• Work closely with the sales and event planning teams to align catering services with client expectations.
• Ensure timely delivery and setup of catering services, including food, beverages, and equipment.
• Handle unexpected challenges during events, ensuring minimal disruption to service.

6. Continuous Improvement

• Evaluate operations to identify areas for improvement in efficiency and quality.
• Stay updated on industry trends and incorporate best practices into operations.
• Innovate menus and service offerings to meet evolving client needs.

Key Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred).

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in catering, hospitality, or food service operations, with at least 2 years in a managerial role.

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost management.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and catering logistics.

Personal Attributes

• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to work under pressure.
• Passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences.