Catering Manager in Birmingham

Catering Manager in Birmingham

Birmingham Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
MindMatch

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to create unforgettable customer experiences.
  • Company: Join the Midlands Arts Centre, a vibrant hub in Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to sustainability and community engagement.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a creative environment while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and a passion for food and service.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

We are looking for a hardworking and confident Catering Manager to join our Catering team at Midlands Arts Centre (MAC). Located in the leafy Birmingham, Cannon Hill Park, MAC offers a range of catering and hospitality across the business, including our restaurant - KILN, bar and event catering. You will play a leading key role in creating a memorable customer experience and supporting our team of Shift Leaders and Customer Service Assistants. Please note, hours of work will include evenings and weekends.

Job Purpose: Lead the day-to-day planning and delivery of an excellent catering and hospitality offer across all areas of the business. Coach and train the team to deliver consistently excellent standards of service whilst remaining compliant with all legal requirements. To lead on stock control and contribute to effective staff rostering. Deputise for the Head of Catering Operations when required.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Effectively manage and direct the day-to-day delivery of the catering and hospitality offer at MAC, operating within budget and demonstrating flexibility to meet MAC's operational challenges.
  • Deliver excellent service, coaching the team in the standards expected to increase customer satisfaction, always putting customer experience at the heart of decisions.
  • Positively, confidently and professionally resolve customer complaints as they arise.
  • Work collaboratively with the Kitchen Team to monitor quality, constructively raising any issues with the appropriate member of the team.
  • Effectively manage stock ordering, control and security, continuously monitoring stock availability, planning for busy periods and ensuring value for money from suppliers.
  • Champion the correct and effective use of the EPOS system, to ensure Catering Sales are true and accurate.
  • Effectively manage own and team rotas and workload to ensure the administrative requirements of the role are managed, whilst also spending time leading and supporting the team on the floor across all areas.
  • Support payroll by checking and amending shifts using Rotacloud and authorising overtime.
  • Maintain accurate HACCP, COSHH and all other documentation required to keep the operation compliant.
  • Control operational costs and identify ways to reduce waste working to department profit margins.
  • Support MAC's monthly stock take process to ensure results are accurate.
  • Comply with all fire and safety regulations including acting as a Fire Marshall during an evacuation.
  • Champion and deliver the standards required to maintain a 5-star EHO rating.
  • Support the Head of Catering in the delivery of training and completion of records to ensure compliance to food, licensing and health & safety laws.
  • Comply with allergen awareness procedures and laws, maintaining staff training and up to date records.
  • Work pro-actively to develop strong and effective relationships with other key teams at MAC (predominantly the Kitchen and Commercial Hires) with a focus on jointly improving operational planning, quality, delivery and service.
  • Encourage the team to work in the same way.
  • Support the Head of Catering in the recruitment, training, and appraising of staff.
  • Implement MAC's Environmental Policy and consider how this role can contribute to MAC's sustainability goals.
  • Promote and ensure the implementation of the equal opportunities, diversity, safeguarding and health & safety policies of MAC.
  • Any other duties which may reasonably be required to support cross-organisational needs.

Person Specification:

  • Core: Previous experience as a restaurant manager, assistant manager or hospitality manager in a food and beverage environment.
  • Experience of managing and organising teams, staffing, workload and priorities.
  • Working knowledge of managing within Health and Safety, Hygiene, Food Safety and Premises Licensing laws.
  • Previous experience of an EPOS system, cash handling and cashing up.
  • Excellent communication skills, personable and able to inspire a team.
  • Problem solver, able to think of solutions or new ways of working.
  • Passionate about food and beverage and interested in current trends in the industry.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and able to flex their own and their team's workload changing plans as needed.
  • Motivated, hardworking and reliable.
  • Able to inspire and motivate a team.
  • Desirable: Food Hygiene Level 3 certificate. MAC can support successful candidates through Food Hygiene training.
  • An interest in a variety of art forms and MAC as a venue and charity.

Equal Opportunities & Diversity: All staff are expected to further, promote, and ensure the implementation of, the equal opportunities and diversity policies of MAC. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work. We are also committed to ensuring our people are a reflection of the communities we serve. We ensure that our recruitment and promotion processes are fair and open to all.

Note: This job description outlines the principal responsibilities and duties of the post holder. It is not meant to be, nor is it, an exhaustive list of specific responsibilities and duties. The post holder will be expected to undertake any other duties which could reasonably be expected as being within the remit of the post and which arise out of changes in legislation, regulations, orders, rules and working practices, methods and procedures and reviews, as directed from time to time.

How to Apply: To apply for this post please follow the link below to our Hireful application system and follow the application process, ensuring you answer all questions.

Deadline: Applications can be received at any time until midnight on 10 July 2026. Late applications will not be considered. Please be aware that we may close this vacancy before the stated deadline if we receive a high number of applications. We strongly advise you to submit your application as early as possible.

Short-listing: Shortlisted candidates will be informed at the latest by the end of day on Friday 17th July.

Interviews: Interviews will be held Tuesday 21 July and Wednesday 22 July 2026.

Catering Manager in Birmingham employer: MindMatch

Selwood Housing is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a supportive team environment where collaboration and knowledge sharing are key. With a commitment to inclusivity and a range of benefits including competitive salaries, flexible working opportunities, and ongoing training, you will not only gain hands-on experience as an Apprentice Electrician but also build a rewarding career in a respected trade within a growing not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing affordable housing in the Southwest.

MindMatch

Contact Details:

MindMatch Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Catering Manager in Birmingham

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 MindMatch. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to MindMatch

Don't be shy about reaching out to MindMatch 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 in Birmingham

Team Management
Customer Service
Conflict Resolution
Stock Control
EPOS System Proficiency
Health and Safety Compliance
Food Safety Knowledge

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 MindMatch 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 MindMatch

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!