Assistant Catering Manager in Lowestoft

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Catering Assistant Manager to support the daily operation of a busy factory catering department. The successful candidate will assist in managing kitchen operations, food safety compliance, financial administration, stock control, staff supervision, and health & safety procedures while helping deliver high-quality food service to staff. This role requires strong organisational skills, leadership ability, attention to detail, and confidence using administrative systems and presenting operational data.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Management
  • Support the Catering Manager with daily kitchen and catering operations.
  • Support team members throughout daily operations.
  • Ensure all HACCP paperwork is completed and signed off daily.
  • Manage and maintain the staff clock-in system.
  • Approve holiday requests and maintain staffing schedules.
  • Order staff uniforms and supplies as required.
• Food Safety & Health and Safety
  • Conduct monthly Food Safety and Health & Safety audits.
  • Report safety walks, near misses, and safety observations.
  • Maintain and update risk assessments and ensure team sign-off completion.
  • Manage the Sodexo Health & Safety Tracker.
  • Create and deliver monthly safety moments and team safety communications.
  • Ensure compliance with food hygiene, allergen, and health & safety regulations.
• Financial & Administrative Duties
  • Manage financial data and support budget monitoring.
  • Manage accounts and weekly money counting/banking.
  • Input stock counts into systems accurately.
  • Order stock and approve supplier orders.
  • Collect vendor numbers and input supplier data.
  • Create till maps and update buttons/prices as required.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Staff Management & Training
  • Train and support all catering staff.
  • Conduct and document monthly team meetings.
  • Create meeting minutes and operational updates.
  • Promote a positive team culture and high performance standards.
• Reporting & Presentations
  • Create PowerPoint presentations for monthly Birds Eye meetings.
  • Prepare and present Quarterly Business Reviews with clients.
  • Produce operational reports and performance updates.

Skills & Experience Required

Essential

• Previous experience in catering, hospitality, or food service supervision.
• Strong understanding of food safety and HACCP procedures.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations.
• Experience managing stock control and ordering systems.
• Administrative and financial record-keeping experience.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• Ability to lead and train staff effectively.
• Competent using Microsoft Office, including Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Desirable

• Level 3 Food Hygiene qualification.
• IOSH or Health & Safety certification.
• Contract catering experience.
• Experience preparing business review presentations.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable and professional.
• Detail-oriented and organised.
• Positive and supportive leadership style.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Confident communicator with staff, suppliers, and clients.

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced catering environment.
• Combination of kitchen-based and administrative duties.
• Standing for extended periods and occasional lifting may be required.
• Adherence to strict hygiene and safety procedures.