Catering manager

Career path and progression

With experience you could:

• move into larger organisations or event catering
• study for further qualifications to move into other hospitality roles
• start your own contract catering business

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• leadership skills
• the ability to motivate and manage staff
• excellent verbal communication skills
• customer service skills
• business management skills
• knowledge of food production methods
• maths knowledge
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• get a food hygiene certificate
• pass enhanced background checks

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Business - Catering managers plan finances, manage budgets, oversee stock control, and negotiate contracts with suppliers. They need strong business management skills to keep their operation profitable and running smoothly.
• Food Preparation and Nutrition - Catering managers need to understand food production methods, cater for special diets, and meet cultural and nutritional needs. They also ensure food hygiene and safety regulations are followed across their team.
• Mathematics - Catering managers use maths daily to manage budgets, calculate food costs, control stock levels, and price menus. They also need to work out staffing costs and ensure the business stays within its financial targets.

Also relevant

• English Language - Catering managers communicate constantly – with staff, suppliers, and customers. They need strong verbal and written skills for negotiating contracts, writing menus, training staff, and handling complaints effectively.
• Accounting - Catering managers are responsible for planning finances and managing budgets, which involves tracking income, expenses, and profit margins. Understanding basic accounting principles helps them make sound financial decisions for their operation.
• Psychology - Catering managers recruit, train, and motivate teams of staff, often in high-pressure environments. Understanding what drives people and how to manage different personalities helps them lead effectively and keep morale high.
• Biology - Catering managers need to understand food hygiene, including how bacteria grow and spread, to keep food safe for customers. This is especially important when managing catering in hospitals, schools, or care settings where people may be vulnerable.