Catering Manager EduServe Limited

COMPANY BRIEF:

EduServe is the trading arm of the Rhodes Park Schools Group and provides catering and retailing services to school communities where it operates. It supplies meals, school uniforms, and other educational products such as textbooks, stationery, and souvenirs to the learners, staff, parents, and other members of the school communities.

Currently, EduServe employs a total of 27 specialized staff. It operates on campus at Rhodes Park School in Northmead, Woodford School Lusaka in Kabulonga, and Ashford Academy in Ngwerere.

As an equal opportunity employer, EduServe requires the services of a suitably qualified individual who is well-motivated and results-driven to head our Catering Division as Catering Manager.

JOB PURPOSE:

The Catering Manager (CM) is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the dining and catering services offered by the Company. This includes planning, organizing, and managing catering events, ensuring the provision of nutritious and appealing meals, maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations, and managing the catering staff. The Catering Manager will work closely with school management, parents, students, and outside customers to deliver high-quality dining and catering experiences.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Menu Planning and Food Preparation – Develop and plan menus that meet nutritional standards and dietary requirements of students, and ensure the preparation of meals is appealing, nutritious, and cost-effective.
• Quality Control – Ensure food safety and quality standards are met, conducting regular inspections and audits.
• Catering, Dining and Event Management – Coordinate and manage catering for school events, meetings, and special occasions in collaboration with designated school managers.
• Administrative Duties – Maintain accurate records and prepare reports for the Executive Management Team and school management, and attend relevant meetings.
• Staff Management and Training – Assist in the recruitment, training, and supervision of catering staff and ensuring excellent service standards and team performance.
• Budget and Inventory Management – Develop and manage catering budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring profitability while meeting client needs. Oversee inventory management, ordering, and procurement of food and supplies.
• Customer Service – Address client inquiries and concerns, providing exceptional customer service to foster repeat business.
• Vendor Relations – Maintain relationships with food suppliers and vendors, negotiating contracts and managing inventory.
• Marketing and Promotion – Develop marketing strategies to promote catering services and increase client base.
• Compliance and Safety – Ensure compliance with health, safety regulations, sanitation, hygiene standards as well as company policies.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & PERSONAL COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field preferred.
• Proven experience as a Catering Manager or relevant role in a school or similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication skills and interpersonal abilities. Proficient in budgeting and financial management.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage deadlines.