Catering Operations Manager

Job description

Job Title: Catering Operations Manager Healthy Food Subscription Model

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Chief Business Development Officer

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly organized and passionate Catering Operations Manager to oversee the daily operations of our healthy food subscription service, including kitchen operations. This role is critical to ensuring the seamless delivery of nutritious, high-quality meals to our subscribers while maintaining operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and exceptional customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food service management, a passion for health and wellness, and the ability to lead a team in a fast-paced kitchen and delivery environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:

Oversee the end-to-end operations of the healthy food subscription service, including meal planning, production, packaging, and delivery.

Manage kitchen operations, ensuring meals are prepared efficiently, consistently, and in compliance with health, safety, and quality standards.

Supervise food preparation, cooking, and plating processes to ensure meals meet brand standards for taste, presentation, and nutritional value.

Optimize kitchen workflows to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.

Coordinate with suppliers and vendors to ensure timely delivery of fresh, organic, and sustainable ingredients.

2. Kitchen Management:

Lead and manage the kitchen team, including chefs, cooks, and prep staff, to ensure smooth daily operations.

Ensure proper storage, handling, and rotation of ingredients to maintain freshness and reduce waste.

Maintain kitchen equipment, ensuring it is in good working condition and scheduling repairs or replacements as needed.

Enforce strict cleanliness and sanitation standards in the kitchen and storage areas.

Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for kitchen operations.

3. Team Leadership:

Recruit, train, and supervise kitchen staff, delivery personnel, and other operational team members.

Foster a positive and collaborative work environment focused on health, wellness, and customer satisfaction.

Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching to team members.

Schedule staff shifts to ensure adequate coverage for all operational needs.

4. Customer Experience:

Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements to enhance the subscription experience.

Address and resolve any customer complaints or issues related to meal quality, delivery, or service.

Collaborate with the marketing team to ensure customer expectations are met and exceeded.

5. Financial Management:

Develop and manage the operations budget, ensuring cost-effective practices without compromising quality.

Track and analyze key performance metrics (e.g., food costs, labor costs, delivery times) to identify areas for improvement.

Implement strategies to reduce operational costs while maintaining high standards.

6. Compliance and Safety:

Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal food safety regulations.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment in the kitchen and storage areas.

Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure adherence to health and safety standards.

7. Innovation and Growth:

Collaborate with the culinary team to develop new, innovative, and seasonal menu items that align with the brands health-focused mission.

Identify opportunities to expand the subscription service, such as new delivery areas or meal options.

Stay updated on industry trends and incorporate best practices into operations.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred).

3+ years of experience in food service management, catering, or a similar role, with a focus on kitchen operations.

Strong knowledge of healthy, organic, and sustainable food practices.

Excellent leadership and team management skills.

Proven ability to manage budgets and optimize operational efficiency.

Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Knowledge of food safety regulations and certifications.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Proficiency in using restaurant management software and tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a subscription-based or meal delivery service model.

Passion for health, wellness, and nutrition.

Familiarity with dietary restrictions and special diets (e.g., vegan, gluten-free, keto).

Culinary background or experience working in a professional kitchen.

Working Conditions:

This role requires working in a kitchen environment, which may involve standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and exposure to heat and cold.

Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends as needed to meet operational demands.