Catering District Manager

Feedem Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 40 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

A large contract catering company in South Africa is seeking a Catering District Manager who will oversee multiple catering units, ensuring they operate efficiently and profitably. The candidate will lead and guide Catering Managers, maintain food quality standards, and ensure exceptional client satisfaction. A diploma or degree in Hospitality Management and at least 5-7 years’ experience in the food service sector are required, including at least 3 years in management. Strong leadership and financial management skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5-7 years' experience in the catering or food service industry.
• At least 3 years in a management role overseeing multiple units.
• Proven experience leading teams and managing budgets.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all catering units.
• Conduct regular site visits to assess operations and compliance.
• Lead and mentor Catering Managers for performance improvement.
• Monitor and control operating costs to ensure profitability.
• Ensure adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients.

Skills

Strong leadership and team management skills

Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities

Financial acumen with experience in budgeting

In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations

Excellent communication and negotiation skills

Strong problem-solving abilities

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Diploma/Degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Job description

Job Advert Summary

The Catering District Manager- Corporate will oversee multiple catering units within an assigned district, ensuring they operate efficiently, profitably, and in alignment with company standards. This role involves managing and guiding Catering Managers, monitoring performance metrics, maintaining food quality and safety standards, and ensuring excellent client satisfaction across all units.

Established in 1975, Feedem is a large contract catering company in South Africa which manages in excess of 300 sites and employs more than 5 000 people ranging from dieticians, chefs and human capital specialists to hygiene experts.

We provide a wide range of catering and associated services to clients in all industries. We customise our catering and services according to their needs. Our services are offered with confidence as everything we do is underpinned by an ethical code and full compliance with all the relevant industry standards and regulations.

We have a country-wide footprint with our head office in Johannesburg, and regional offices in Cape Town, Durban, George, Worcester, Port Elizabeth, Rustenburg, Kimberley and Bloemfontein.

Minimum Requirements

Education and Experience

• Diploma/Degree in Hospitality Management, Food Service Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years’ experience in the catering or food service industry, with at least 3 years in a management role overseeing multiple units/sites.
• Proven experience leading teams, managing budgets, and ensuring operational excellence.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and motivate staff.
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations (HACCP, ISO) and operational compliance.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and operational management tools.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and own reliable transport.
• Willingness to travel extensively within the district to oversee multiple catering units.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

Duties and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all catering units within the district to ensure operational excellence.
• Conduct regular site visits to assess operations, food quality, hygiene, and compliance with company policies.
• Develop and implement operational plans to drive efficiency, improve service delivery, and meet performance targets.
• Support Catering Managers in resolving operational challenges and implementing best practices.

Team Leadership and Performance Management

• Lead, mentor, and motivate Catering Managers to achieve operational and financial targets.
• Set clear performance goals for Catering Managers and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Identify training and development needs to enhance staff capabilities and overall performance.
• Foster a positive and collaborative working environment that encourages teamwork and accountability.

Financial Management

• Assist in preparing and managing budgets for all units within the district.
• Monitor and control operating costs, ensuring profitability across all catering sites.
• Analyse financial reports and KPIs to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising on quality or service standards.

Quality, Safety, and Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP, ISO, etc.) across all units.
• Conduct compliance audits to ensure catering units meet company, client, and legal standards.
• Address non-compliance issues swiftly and implement corrective measures.
• Promote a culture of excellence in quality, safety, and cleanliness across all sites.

Client and Customer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients to ensure satisfaction and retention.
• Address client concerns and feedback promptly, collaborating with Catering Managers to implement solutions.
• Ensure Catering Managers meet client requirements and deliver exceptional customer service.
• Identify opportunities for service improvements and growth within the district.

Reporting and Administration

• Compile and present district performance reports, including financials, KPIs, and operational updates, to the Operations Manager.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of all catering units, ensuring targets and standards are consistently met.
• Maintain accurate records of compliance, staffing, and financial performance for all sites.