Catering, Canteen & Functions Manager

Job Specification: Catering, Canteen & Functions Manager (Pvt School)

Job Title:

Canteen & Functions Manager

Department:

Operations / Events & Functions

Location:

Broad Acres / Fourways Area, Johannesburg

Employment Type:

Full-time

Job Purpose:

To lead and manage all aspects of external Canteen and Catering functions—from concept to execution, ensuring seamless planning, profitability, and customer satisfaction. The Canteen & Functions Manager will act as a second “business owner”, driving operational excellence, managing staff, and coordinating logistics with precision and passion.

️ Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Function Planning & Execution

• Liaise with clients to understand unique requirements for each function.
• Design bespoke menus tailored to event type, budget, and dietary needs.
• Plan and coordinate all logistics including venue setup, staffing, and timing.
• Source ingredients and supplies in line with menu and budget constraints.
• Calculate food costs and build margin estimates per function to ensure profitability. **
• Oversee day-to-day operations, including opening and closing procedures

Financial & Inventory Management

• Conduct weekly stock takes across kitchen and bar.
• Monitor inventory levels and place orders to avoid shortages or overstocking.
• Track food and beverage costs and implement cost-control measures.
• Oversee ordering and inventory management to prevent shortages or excess stock.
• Prepare post-function financial reports including margin analysis and cost breakdowns.

Staff Management

• Supervise and schedule kitchen and front-of-house staff – 8 staff
• Provide leadership, training, and performance feedback to team members.
• Ensure staff are briefed and aligned with function goals and service standards.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal departments (kitchen, FOH, procurement, finance) to ensure smooth operations.
• Maintain clear and professional communication with clients, suppliers, and team members.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all function-related queries and decisions.

Operational Excellence

• Uphold hygiene, safety, and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot issues on the spot and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Continuously improve processes and suggest innovations to enhance service delivery.

Customer Service

• Ensure exceptional customer service and handle complaints or disputes professionally.
• Monitor and improve the overall customer experience, including food quality, ambiance, and service speed.
• Act as the face of the business by interacting with stakeholders and building relationships.

✅ Required Skills & Attributes:

• Proven experience in restaurant / Canteen / hospitality management (minimum 7 years).
• Strong understanding of food costing, margin calculation, and inventory control.
• Excellent menu planning and culinary coordination skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Self-starter with entrepreneurial mindset—operates as if the business is their own.
• Ability to lead and motivate diverse teams under pressure.
• Proficient in stock management systems and basic financial reporting

Qualifications:

• Diploma in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or related field (advantageous).
• Food Safety Certification (advantageous).
• Experience with POS and inventory software (e.g., GAAP, Pilot, Scadsys or similar).
• Police Clearance

Remuneration and Benefits:

• Market Related (+-22K) DOE per month + Incentive structure
• +-3 Months Leave per Annum