Supervisor - Catering Operations & Logistics

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Why Inflight Services? Our customers choose United because of our dedication to safety and passion for service. United's Inflight Services team is made up of diverse, driven individuals working together to Connect People and Unite the World. From operational leadership and crew planning to safety and service procedures, our Inflight Services team provides the innovative approaches, tools, training and guidance needed for our flight attendants to deliver the best possible customer experience, and aid in our mission to become the best airline in the history of aviation.

Job overview and responsibilities: As the Supervisor, Catering Operations & Logistics, the role will promote safety and compliance in all we do. Whether on the ramp, in food production, or away from work, keeping each other safe is top of mind. This role will demonstrate our commitment to partnership and provide oversight and direction to our airport and catering partners as they perform the daily tasks required to support the operation. United are good stewards of our resources, focusing on responsible use of equipment and materials, warehouse management practices, inventory ordering and stock management, and waste reduction efforts. The role supports knowledge of, and ensures compliance with United's policies and procedures, as well as the understanding and awareness of performance metrics and reports.

• Vendor & Performance Management: Oversee management of vendor action plans, identify issues, operational risks, quality of product, and areas of concern using performance data, daily walkthroughs and other sources of information. Set expectations and goals with vendor to enable the consistent delivery of quality service and product. Engage in troubleshooting and in‑the‑moment resolution with vendors in accomplishing goals and objectives. Drive consistency in standard work and facilitate sharing of best practices with vendor partners. Utilize performance data to drive insights and educate/support partners.
• Auditing & Regulatory Compliance: Conduct regular audits ensuring compliance with Catering Operations Business Manual, United Airlines Safety Standards, and other regulatory requirements. Support investigations into safety incidents including corrective action planning. Facilitate partnership with United Airlines Food Safety and operational safety teams.
• Financial Controls: Provide direct oversight of the day‑to‑day operation and conduct audits to ensure integrity of catering partner inventory management process and reporting. Conduct spot checks evaluating inventory levels of galley equipment, food, and beverages. Provide intelligence over key cost drivers or extraordinary cost drivers (e.g., equipment shortage, excessive oversight) as needed.
• Change Management: Provide direct support to catering partners on‑site in the kitchens for new initiatives such as technology enhancements, changes to United's performance management system, new process adoption, etc. Partner with CSC and leadership teams to support change management and communication plans for initiatives. Provide on‑site support and monitoring of adoption and success for new initiatives. Coordinate execution of new menu concepts and service enhancements.
• Leadership, Collaboration & Partnering: Serve as a supporting liaison between Catering vendor and local airport personnel including Inflight, Airport Operations and other similar groups. Support meetings, channels of communication and other forums for robust information sharing and planning at the local level. Serve as point of escalation and support for Catering vendors. Support recognition and excellence programs through recognition and commendation. Serve as consultant and subject matter expert as needed providing guidance and advice to catering partners and local operating groups. Regularly interfaces with field and CSC‑based Catering leadership teams, to provide for adequate situational awareness and obtain support as needed.

This position may have up to 75% travel required, and may require work outside of regular business hours. This position is offered on local terms and conditions. Expatriate assignments and sponsorship for employment visas, even on a time‑limited visa status, will not be awarded.

Qualifications

What's Needed To Succeed (Minimum Qualifications): Bachelor’s degree or 4 years of relevant work experience in Business, Operations, Engineering or Related Fields. Ability to work flexible schedule to cover operationally critical days of week and shifts. Advanced skills in Microsoft Office suite. Must possess exceptional planning and organizational skills, along with strong written and oral communication skills. Proven track record to work independently, in controlled and uncontrolled operation environments, and in a team environment. Must be legally authorized to work in United Kingdom for any employer without sponsorship. Must be fluent in English (written and spoken). Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification. Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position.

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications): Bachelor’s degree, Safety Management systems, HACCP, PCQI or equivalent food safety certificates.