At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations and deliver exceptional food experiences with a talented team.
- Company: Join Dine, a chef-led catering company passionate about food and creativity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free meals, and access to a staff shop.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and grow your career in a supportive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment while working with iconic brands like PepsiCo.
- Qualifications: 3+ years as a Catering Manager with strong leadership and budget management skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
Salary: Up to 36,000 per annum (DOE)
Shift hours: Full Time
Location: Skelmersdale
Working Pattern: 5 days over 7 in line with the business needs.
Benefits: Access to staff shop, free meal and Pepsi drinks on shift.
Personality behind every plate. Food first. Always.
At Dine, food isn't an add-on. It's the centre of everything we do. Founded in the Northwest in 1997, Dine Contract Catering was built by chefs and food lovers who believed workplace dining could be something more. Today, that chef-led, food-first mindset still defines us. We're a business where chefs are empowered to create, bringing together seasonal ingredients, local suppliers and bold ideas to deliver food experiences with real personality, purpose and pride. Every offer is tailored. Every menu has intent.
About the role
We're looking for an experienced Catering Manager to join our Dine team working in partnership with PepsiCo in Skelmersdale where the iconic Monster Munch are produced. You will lead the delivery of exceptional food on-site overseeing day-to-day catering operations, ensuring smooth service, outstanding quality, and full compliance with safety and hygiene standards, all while driving financial performance and inspiring your team to deliver excellence. Services include breakfast, lunch, evening meals and hospitality. We also manage the staff shop operation.
What You'll Do
- Oversee all catering operations to meet contractual, financial, and service objectives.
- Build strong client relationships through regular communication, performance reviews, and innovation.
- Manage budgets effectively, controlling labour, food, and operating costs to achieve profit targets.
- Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing catering team of 12 employees with a focus on engagement, retention, and progression.
- Step into the kitchen to support the team during periods of annual leave, absence, or peak service demand.
- Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and food hygiene standards, including HACCP and audit requirements.
- Use data and KPIs to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Overview of the cleaning team including processing time and attendance.
What You'll Bring
- Minimum 3 years experience as a Catering Manager, ideally in a workplace setting.
- Strong leadership, communication, and client relationship skills.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, costs, and performance targets.
- Confident leading large teams across multiple shift patterns.
- Solid understanding of food safety legislation and experience implementing HACCP systems.
- Commercial awareness and confidence using digital catering systems (EPOS, stock control, compliance tools).
Desirable
- Culinary background.
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 - Skelmersdale - Full Time - Skelmersdale employer: Compass Group
At Dine Contract Catering, we pride ourselves on being a chef-led, food-first company that values creativity and quality in workplace dining. Located in Skelmersdale, our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, offering employees access to unique benefits such as a staff shop and complimentary meals. We are committed to the growth of our team members, providing opportunities for professional development and a supportive environment where diversity is celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager - Skelmersdale - Full Time - Skelmersdale
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Compass Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Manager - Skelmersdale - Full Time - Skelmersdale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Compass Group and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
