At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to deliver exceptional catering services and create memorable customer experiences.
- Company: Join Houston & Hawkes, an award-winning independent caterer known for creativity and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a contributory pension, free meals, company events, and 23 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Why this job: This role offers flexibility, excitement, and the chance to grow in a vibrant work culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in events and corporate hospitality, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a certified B Corp company committed to social responsibility and great British produce.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 46000 £ per year.
Location: Central London
Salary: £45,000-£46,000 per annum
Shift Pattern: Monday-Friday
Houston & Hawkes have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Catering General Manager to work at our new, prestigious contract in the heart of London. If you're looking for a career that offers flexibility, excitement, and progression, then contract catering could be for you! We'll give you a place to grow and a career to be proud of.
Catering Manager Duties:
- To plan, lead and deliver exceptional customer service
- Create a culture of service and teamwork
- Manage and drive the Guest experience to build customer loyalty and increased sales
- Hold daily briefings with team to engage them on key messages and encourage discussion
- Making sure we are meeting the standards required by the client
- To ensure a 5* service is always delivered
- Motivate and lead by example, ensuring you and your team have fun at work and are proud of your efforts
- Seek opportunities to exceed customer and client expectations and increase sales
- To assist as directed with all aspects of preparation and presentation of food to the company's standard and ensuring adherence to legislation including HACCP.
- Monitor compliance with company and government regulations, regarding customer service, food preparation and serving
- Responsible for ensuring that all financial and administrative duties are completed accurately, on time and in accordance with company policies and procedures, banking reconciliation, & till operations.
- To assist the compilation and delivery of various management reports in Word, Excel
- Day to day management of the ordering process and stock control
- Working knowledge of HACCP & Health & Safety laws
Catering Manager Requirements:
- Previous experience with events and corporate hospitality
- Organisational skills with the ability to plan, prioritise, multi-task and work quickly and efficiently, ensuring deadlines are met irrespective of conflicting priorities
- Positive attitude, professionalism and respect for others
- Have the ability to display a real passion for food, coffee and customer service
- Must be able to work within a team and without supervision
- An excellent team player, able to communicate at all levels and commit to sharing your knowledge and skills within our team
- Strong leadership qualities and excellent communication skills
- Must be computer literate and have experience in using excel spreadsheets
- Strong financial understanding and demonstrable budgeting management
- Good understanding of report writing and financial management
- Have creativity and a flair for marketing
Catering Manager Additional Benefits:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Free access to the company Employee Assistant Programme
- Life assurance
- Company events including all company Christmas and summer parties
- Recognition schemes and people awards
- Family friendly support
- Uniform provided
- The holiday allowance is 23 days plus bank holidays
- Free meals at work
- Membership of CODE exclusively for Hospitality Professionals
Who We Are:
Houston & Hawkes is a young and dynamic independent caterer based in the South East. We are proud to be an award-winning company, ranked among the top 30 companies to work for in the hospitality industry, and a certified B Corp company. We believe in creating memorable experiences for our customers through our vibrant, creative, and sustainable food offerings. We operate coffee bars, staff restaurants, and delis, tailored to our clients' hospitality and event needs. Committed to social responsibility, passionate about Great British produce and dedicated to our talented teams. Join Houston & Hawkes and be part of a team that values excellence, creativity, and professional growth.
Catering General Manager employer: Houston and Hawkes
Contact Detail:
Houston and Hawkes Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering General Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network within the catering and hospitality industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and connect with professionals who work at Houston & Hawkes or similar companies. This can give you insights into the company culture and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in catering and customer service. Being knowledgeable about current practices can help you stand out during interviews and show your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you motivated your team or improved customer satisfaction, as this aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Houston & Hawkes thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and the types of events they cater to. Tailoring your conversation to reflect your alignment with their goals can make a strong impression during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering General Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in catering management, particularly in events and corporate hospitality. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you meet the requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and customer service. Mention specific examples of how you've exceeded customer expectations in previous roles and how you can bring that same energy to Houston & Hawkes.
Highlight Leadership Skills: Emphasise your leadership qualities and ability to motivate a team. Provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your communication skills and ability to create a positive work environment.
Showcase Financial Acumen: Since the role requires strong financial understanding, include any relevant experience with budgeting and financial management. Mention your proficiency with Excel and report writing to demonstrate your capability in handling administrative duties.
How to prepare for a job interview at Houston and Hawkes
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Catering General Manager, strong leadership is key. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, highlighting your ability to motivate and inspire others while maintaining a fun work environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Food and Service
Houston & Hawkes values a real passion for food and customer service. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for the culinary arts and share experiences that showcase your commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Prepare for scenarios related to managing events, handling customer complaints, or ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and think through your responses in advance.
✨Highlight Your Financial Acumen
Since the role involves financial management, be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting and financial reporting. Provide specific examples of how you've managed costs effectively while still delivering high-quality service.