About the Role
Our client, a dynamic and expanding mobile catering business, is seeking a proactive and hands-on Mobile Catering Unit Manager to oversee operations in the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area. This exciting role involves managing the day-to-day operations of a catering unit, ensuring the delivery of high-quality food and exceptional customer service to a diverse clientele across various locations. You will be responsible for staff management, inventory control, vehicle maintenance, route planning, and maintaining strict health and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food service management, excellent logistical skills, and a passion for delivering memorable culinary experiences on the go. This is a critical leadership position within our client's growing fleet.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage all aspects of mobile catering unit operations, ensuring efficiency and profitability.
- Lead, train, and schedule a team of catering staff, including chefs and service crew.
- Oversee food preparation, quality control, and adherence to menu specifications.
- Manage inventory of food supplies, beverages, and consumables, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste.
- Ensure the mobile unit is clean, well-maintained, and fully compliant with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations.
- Develop and manage daily/weekly service routes and schedules for the catering unit.
- Handle customer inquiries, feedback, and resolve any service issues to ensure high customer satisfaction.
- Manage the operational budget for the unit, including fuel, maintenance, and supplies.
- Maintain records related to sales, expenses, inventory, and staff performance.
- Foster a positive and productive work environment for the unit team.
Requirements
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in food service management, catering, or a related operational role, preferably with mobile operations.
- Proven experience in staff supervision, training, and scheduling.
- Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP), and vehicle compliance regulations.
- Excellent organizational, time management, and logistical planning skills.
- Ability to manage budgets and control costs effectively.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients and staff.
- A valid driver's license is essential; a professional driving permit (PDP) would be advantageous.
- Flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends and public holidays, as required by business needs.
- Problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, effective decisions.
- Passion for food service and delivering high-quality customer experiences.
Benefits
- Our client offers a competitive salary package that reflects the responsibilities of the role.
- Performance-based bonuses are available for achieving operational targets and excellent customer feedback.
- Opportunities for career advancement within a growing company are significant.
- You will be provided with a company mobile catering unit and resources to manage effectively.
- A supportive management team is in place to assist with operational challenges.
- Potential for further training and development in logistics and management.
- The chance to be an integral part of a well-regarded mobile catering service.
- Regular performance reviews to ensure fair compensation and recognition.
- A dynamic work environment with diverse operational challenges.