Catering Manager 2 - job 2 of 2

The Catering Manager at SodexoMAGIC in Detroit will oversee all aspects of catering events for the Wayne State University account. This includes reviewing event orders for accuracy, organizing events with on-time setups, ensuring superior service from staff, conducting evaluations for service quality and customer satisfaction, and providing training on service techniques. The role is pivotal in maintaining SodexoMAGIC's high standards in catering service.

To be considered for the Catering Manager role at SodexoMAGIC, candidates should possess 3 to 4 years of experience in catering, event, or banquet supervision within high-volume settings, such as conference centers or hotels. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and excellent leadership capabilities are essential. A professional demeanor and the ability to cater to diverse audiences is also key to thriving in this role.

As a Catering Manager with SodexoMAGIC, you'll enjoy a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and respects individual contributions. The role is designed to promote work/life balance, following the academic calendar of Wayne State University. You will be part of a team that encourages career development and appreciates the creativity and ideas of its members, ensuring a fulfilling work experience.

SodexoMAGIC provides an extensive benefits package for its Catering Managers, including medical, dental, and vision care, as well as wellness programs. Additionally, you will have access to a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off, company holidays, and opportunities for career growth such as tuition reimbursement. This comprehensive package emphasizes SodexoMAGIC's commitment to employee wellbeing.

To prepare for your interview for the Catering Manager position at SodexoMAGIC, familiarize yourself with the company's mission and values, particularly its dedication to diversity and community impact. Be ready to discuss your previous catering experiences, managing multiple events, and leading teams effectively. Highlight your organizational skills and your capability to deliver high-quality service. Additionally, consider reviewing common catering scenarios and how you've handled them in the past.

Share specific examples from your previous roles where you managed catering events. Detail the types of events, the scale of operations, and any challenges you faced along with how you overcame them. Be sure to emphasize your organizational skills and ability to lead a team towards successful event execution.

Discuss techniques you use to gauge customer satisfaction, such as gathering feedback during and after events. Highlight your focus on communication with clients before, during, and after the event, and mention any specific measures you take to address issues promptly, ensuring a positive experience.

This is a great opportunity to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Talk about a specific incident, explain the situation, and clarify what steps you took to resolve the issue. Highlight your ability to stay calm under pressure and how effective communication with your team helped rectify the situation.

Outline your approach to training team members, such as conducting pre-shift meetings to reinforce excellent service techniques. Discuss how you create an inclusive atmosphere for feedback and questions, encouraging growth and confidence among team members.

Explain your methods for organization, such as utilizing checklists or project management tools to keep track of tasks. Detail how you assess urgency and importance, and how you delegate tasks to team members effectively to ensure that all events receive the necessary attention.

Discuss your commitment to using fresh ingredients and maintaining high hygiene standards. Mention procedures you implement to ensure food quality during preparation and service, as well as how you monitor food presentation and service temperature during events.

Illustrate your approach to dietary restrictions by discussing how you consult with clients in advance about their guests' needs. Mention your creativity in crafting diverse menu options to accommodate different restrictions while still offering appealing choices.

Mention any catering management software, scheduling applications, or inventory management tools you have experience with. Discuss how these tools help you streamline operations, manage supplies, and enhance communication among team members during events.

Share examples of how you personalize events by paying attention to details, such as custom decor themes or tailored menus. Emphasize your understanding of the importance of atmosphere and service quality in creating lasting impressions for guests.

Reflect on your passion for the hospitality industry and the joy you find in creating unique experiences for clients. Talk about how your ambition to lead and inspire a team drives you, and connect it to the mission of SodexoMAGIC to enhance quality of life.