Catering & Sales Manager

AWN ENTERPRISES; Al Khobar; On-site; SAR 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Catering Manager to lead and innovate in the event catering sector. This role encompasses strategic planning, financial oversight, and operational excellence, ensuring high-quality service for upscale events. You will be the face of the company, fostering relationships with clients and vendors while driving team performance and training initiatives. If you have a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and possess a strong operational background, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a thriving environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in senior operational roles in event catering.
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial management and budget for events.
• Ensure operational excellence and compliance with standards.
• Lead and train catering staff for exceptional service.

Skills

Operational expertise in event catering

Financial acumen

Multitasking

Profit and loss reporting

Customer experience focus

Education

Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management

Job description

Job Description: Catering Manager

The Catering Manager plays a pivotal role in overseeing the strategic planning and operational execution of catering services, primarily for large-scale events at upscale dining establishments. This position requires adept management of high-quality catering operations to ensure exceptional customer experiences and profitability.

Key Responsibilities & Activities

1. Financial Management and Budget Oversight

• Lead quarterly forecasting and annual budgeting processes.
• Manage client budgets for each event.
• Provide full internal costings for all events with prior approval.
• Implement and manage event-specific P&L in collaboration with Finance.
• Analyze financial reports to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support quotation processes and payment collections.

Operational Management

• Ensure operational excellence aligned with high-quality standards.
• Optimize workflow and resource allocation using best practices.
• Train and develop front-of-house staff to ensure an exceptional guest experience.
• Ensure compliance with event protocols.
• Oversee back-of-house operations, including policies and procedures.
• Update menus regularly to reflect market trends.

Logistics Management

• Manage back-of-house logistics, transportation, stores, and raw materials.

Quality Control

• Maintain consistent quality in food preparation and service.
• Ensure adherence to food safety and hygiene standards.
• Conduct quality audits to uphold guest satisfaction.
• Ensure food quality and temperature standards are met.
• Implement health and safety measures.

Customer Service

• Act as the primary contact for clients, representing the company professionally.
• Lead event execution on the day, maintaining service standards.
• Address customer feedback and implement improvements.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Promote a customer-centric culture.

Team Leadership

• Provide leadership and guidance to the catering team.
• Foster a positive, motivated work environment.
• Oversee staff training initiatives.

Expansion & Growth Strategies

• Collaborate on expansion plans and new ventures.
• Oversee the opening of new catering locations.
• Ensure smooth integration of new establishments.

Marketing

• Develop a yearly marketing calendar with the Marketing Department.
• Coordinate with Marketing and Sales teams to maximize revenue.
• Implement marketing activities aligned with the calendar.
• Update the events & catering brochure quarterly.

Event Sales

• Maximize event business through collaboration with the Event Team.
• Upsell value-added items.

Vendor Creation & Client Engagement

• Build relationships with targeted vendors for direct service.
• Assist clients in vendor portal creation.

Contracts & Agreements

• Negotiate contracts requiring at least 50% payment upfront, with full payment due 30 days post-event.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven 7+ years of experience in senior operational roles within the event catering industry.
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management or related field.

Job-Specific Skills

• Operational expertise in event catering with a sales focus.
• Financial acumen and cost-saving strategies.
• Ability to multitask and manage in a busy, upscale environment.
• Deep understanding of profit and loss reporting.
• Commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience.

Core Competencies

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Experience managing P&L accounts.
• Problem-solving and adaptability in fast-paced settings.
• Leadership and team management capabilities.
• Customer-centric mindset with a passion for high-quality catering.
• Profound industry knowledge and best practices.