Empact Group
Job Title: Assistant Catering Manager – Healthcare
Company: Empact Group
Location: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Contract Type: Contract
Posted: 07 August 2024
Closing Date: 28 August 2024
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About Empact Group
Empact Group is a leading provider of food and beverage solutions, committed to delivering high-quality service across various sectors, including healthcare. Our Food Solutions division is dedicated to enhancing the dining experience for healthcare facilities by ensuring that every meal served meets the highest standards of nutrition, taste, and safety. We are currently seeking a motivated and experienced Assistant Catering Manager to join our team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, and contribute to our mission of excellence in food service.
Main Purpose of the Job
The Assistant Catering Manager – Healthcare will play a crucial role in supporting the daily operations of our food service operations within a healthcare setting. This role involves assisting with the management of kitchen activities, implementing production processes, controlling food and labor costs, and ensuring compliance with HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) standards. The successful candidate will work closely with the Catering Manager to ensure smooth and efficient operations, focusing on delivering exceptional food service to meet the needs of healthcare patients and staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Management:
- Assist in overseeing the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring efficient and smooth food production processes.
- Support the implementation and adherence to food production procedures, including recipe standardization and quality control.
- Monitor kitchen staff performance, providing guidance and training to maintain high standards of food preparation and presentation.
- Cost and Budget Management:
- Assist with managing food and labor costs, ensuring adherence to budget guidelines and achieving financial targets.
- Analyze cost reports and implement strategies to optimize resource utilization and reduce wastage.
- Work closely with suppliers and vendors to negotiate favorable terms and manage inventory levels effectively.
- Menu Development and Planning:
- Collaborate with the Catering Manager to develop and plan diverse and nutritious menus tailored to the needs of healthcare patients.
- Ensure that menu offerings accommodate special dietary requirements and dietary restrictions specific to healthcare settings.
- Implement menu changes based on patient feedback, seasonal availability, and nutritional guidelines.
- Food Safety and Hygiene:
- Maintain a comprehensive understanding of HACCP principles and ensure their application in all food handling and preparation processes.
- Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and industry standards.
- Oversee the maintenance of a clean and sanitary kitchen environment, including equipment and facilities.
- Kitchen Brigade Management:
- Assist in managing the kitchen brigade, including scheduling shifts, delegating tasks, and fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Support the recruitment and onboarding of new staff members, ensuring they are trained in food safety protocols and operational procedures.
- Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to promote continuous improvement and professional development.
- Strategic and Day-to-Day Operations:
- Contribute to the strategic planning of food service operations, including the development of operational goals and initiatives.
- Assist with day-to-day management tasks, including coordinating with other departments and addressing operational challenges.
- Ensure that all food service activities align with organizational objectives and healthcare regulations.
Education and Experience
- Educational Background:
- A relevant tertiary qualification in Food and Beverage Services or Culinary Arts is compulsory.
- Professional Experience:
- A minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in kitchen management, preferably within a high-volume, complex foodservice environment.
- Experience working within budget guidelines and delivering results is essential.
- Previous experience in a hospital or healthcare setting is advantageous.
- Strong knowledge of Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) practices is beneficial.
Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies
- Culinary and Food Service Knowledge:
- Comprehensive understanding of the catering environment, including fine dining, restaurant dining, and healthcare food service.
- In-depth knowledge of South African and industry-specific food safety laws and regulations.
- Customer Service and Management Skills:
- Exceptional customer service skills with a focus on delivering a positive dining experience for healthcare patients and staff.
- Strong management skills with the ability to lead and motivate a team, manage conflict, and resolve issues effectively.
- Financial Acumen and Computer Literacy:
- Ability to balance budgets, manage costs, and implement cost-saving measures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software for reporting and operational management.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff, patients, and other stakeholders.
- Strong organizational and planning skills, with attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
- Special Diets and Healthcare Experience:
- Knowledge of special diets and nutritional requirements specific to healthcare settings is essential.
- Previous experience in a healthcare food service role is highly desirable.
Why Join Empact Group?
At Empact Group, we value our employees and are committed to providing a supportive and dynamic work environment. As an Assistant Catering Manager – Healthcare, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the quality of food service provided to healthcare patients. Join our team and contribute to our mission of excellence in food and beverage solutions.
Empact Group is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to Employment Equity and encourage applications from individuals from designated groups in line with our employment equity plan.
By applying for this role, you consent to the collection, processing, and storage of your personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (“POPI”). Your information will be securely stored and used solely for recruitment purposes.
