Assistant Catering Manager - Ermelo (HC) - Talentpool

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist with the planning, preparation, and delivery of high-quality meals, refreshments, and catering functions.
• Support the daily operation of the catering unit, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
• Oversee meal service periods and promptly resolve operational issues.
• Assist with menu planning, development, and costing in line with client requirements and budget targets.
• Manage supplier orders and coordinate the timely procurement of products and services.
• Complete administrative duties, including stock reports, payroll inputs, and operational documentation.
• Receive, inspect, issue, and control stock while maintaining accurate records and stock rotation practices.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with company policies, food safety regulations, and hygiene standards.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and on-the-job training to staff, supporting employee development and succession planning.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, NOSA, and all relevant food safety and health regulations.
• Support employee wellbeing, address staff concerns, and assist with disciplinary processes when required.
• Safeguard company assets, stock, storerooms, cash handling areas, and other controlled spaces.
• Coordinate and participate in stocktakes, investigate variances, and implement corrective actions.
• Attend and contribute to meetings, training sessions, and professional development initiatives.
• Assume responsibility for the catering operation in the absence of the Catering Manager.
• Participate in industry events, exhibitions, and training opportunities to stay informed of hospitality trends and best practices.
• Promote a culture of customer service excellence, quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships at all levels.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop team members.
• Flexible and willing to work shifts, weekends, public holidays, and irregular hours as required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Professional appearance and customer-focused approach.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other relevant computer systems.
• Strong planning, coordination, delegation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective negotiation skills when dealing with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Ability to perform under pressure while maintaining high standards of service delivery.
• Sound financial and commercial acumen, including stock control, cost management, and budget management.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, health and safety, and statutory compliance requirements.
• Customer-focused mindset with the ability to anticipate and respond to client needs.
• Ability to take initiative, make informed decisions, and assume responsibility in the absence of the Catering Manager.

Qualifications:

• +2 years’ experience in the catering and/or restaurant industry on a supervisory level.
• Must have completed at least a Matric
• Previous experience in a healthcare environment would be highly advantageous.