At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation and ensure top-notch food quality and service.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking contract catering business that values teamwork and food excellence.
- Benefits: Opportunities for career progression, skill development, and autonomy in your role.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse culture where everyone can thrive and be their true selves.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on role while building strong client relationships.
- Qualifications: Culinary background and experience in catering or hospitality management.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We're seeking a hands-on Catering Manager with a strong culinary foundation to lead a dynamic contract catering operation. This role is ideal for someone who understands food from the ground up, leads confidently from the front, and is happy to roll up their sleeves and support the kitchen when service demands it. You'll take full ownership of the catering contract, balancing people leadership, food quality, and commercial performance. Acting as the main point of contact for the client, you'll ensure a seamless service while maintaining high standards across both front and back of house.
- Oversee the full catering operation, ensuring consistent food quality and service excellence.
- Lead, develop, and motivate your team, creating a positive and professional working environment.
- Step into the kitchen when required, supporting food preparation, service, and team cover.
- Manage budgets, food costs, labour, and margins to meet financial targets.
- Build strong client relationships, responding proactively to feedback and evolving requirements.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, health & safety, and company policies.
- Drive continuous improvement across menus, service delivery, and operational efficiency.
You'll be part of a forward-thinking contract catering business that values food quality, teamwork, and professional development. We offer genuine opportunities to progress, support to grow your skills, and the autonomy to run your operation with pride and accountability.
- A proven culinary background (e.g. trained chef or significant kitchen leadership experience).
- Previous experience as a Catering Manager, Chef Manager, or similar role within contract catering or hospitality.
- Willingness and ability to work hands-on in the kitchen when required to support service delivery.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Solid commercial awareness, including cost control, budgeting, and KPI management.
- Excellent communication skills and a client-focused mindset.
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Catering Manager in Wakefield employer: Compass Group PLC
At Compass Group UK&I, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions food quality and teamwork within a vibrant contract catering environment. Our Catering Manager role offers not only the chance to lead a dedicated team but also the opportunity for personal and professional growth, with a strong emphasis on skill development and career progression. Located in a supportive workplace that values diversity and individual contributions, you will enjoy the autonomy to manage your operation while fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager in Wakefield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the catering and hospitality industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a job opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! If you get the chance, offer to do a trial shift or a cooking demonstration. This is your chance to shine and show potential employers that you can lead from the front and handle the heat in the kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your follow-ups! After an interview or meeting, send a quick thank-you note. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your passion for food quality and service excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for someone like you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you a leg up in the hiring process. Let’s get you that Catering Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Manager in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills:Make sure to highlight your culinary background in your application. We want to see how your experience as a trained chef or kitchen leader can bring value to our catering operation.
Demonstrate Leadership Experience:Talk about your previous roles where you led a team. We’re looking for someone who can motivate and develop their team, so share examples of how you've created a positive working environment.
Be Client-Focused:Since you'll be the main point of contact for clients, it’s important to showcase your communication skills. Let us know how you've built strong client relationships and responded to feedback in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group PLC
✨Know Your Culinary Stuff
Brush up on your culinary knowledge and be ready to discuss your experience in the kitchen. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've led a team or improved food quality in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Think of instances where you've motivated your team or resolved conflicts. Highlight your ability to create a positive working environment, as this is crucial for a Catering Manager role.
✨Understand the Business Side
Familiarise yourself with budgeting, cost control, and KPIs. Be ready to discuss how you've managed these aspects in past positions, as commercial awareness is key for success in this role.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewer
Remember, you're not just being assessed on your skills but also on your personality. Engage with the interviewer, ask questions about their team culture, and show genuine interest in the company’s values and goals.
