Canteen Manager

Introduction

The Catering Manager is responsible for the effective management and operation of the 24/7 canteen. This role combines front-of-house supervision, kitchen oversight, procurement, stock control, and administrative duties to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, cost-effective Food & Beverage services while maintaining excellent customer service standards and facilitating growth and profitability of the operation.

Duties & Responsibilities

Full Catering Operations Management

• Oversee daily canteen operations, ensuring smooth service across all shifts.

• Monitor opening and closing of the canteen sites as required; ensure readiness for service at all times.

• Ensure canteen is clean, hygienic, safe, and compliant with food health and safety regulations.

• Create, implement and monitor standard operating procedures (SOPs) for preparation, storage, service, and customer interaction.

• Report all facility and maintenance requirement to the Operations Manager

Staff Management & Training

• Recruit, induct, and manage canteen staff (chefs, servers, cashiers, cleaners).

• Prepare shift rosters and manage attendance.

• Lead daily briefings and regular staff meetings.

• Provide training in food safety, upselling, customer service, and use of POS systems.

• Manage performance reviews, address poor performance, and apply disciplinary procedures where necessary.

• Foster a positive, motivated, and service-driven team culture.

Food Production & Menu Oversight

• Create, cost, design, implement, and adjust menus to meet client specifications.

• Ensure recipes are costed, standardized, and consistently delivered to meet the budgeted margins.

• Monitor food quality, portion control, and presentation.

• Stay updated on food trends and nutrition for menu innovation.

Procurement & Stock Control

• Order food, beverages, cleaning supplies, and consumables based on par levels.

• Source and negotiate with suppliers for best quality and pricing.

• Oversee deliveries, check quality/quantity, and manage returns or credits.

• Ensure FIFO (First In, First Out) stock rotation and correct storage procedures.

• Conduct weekly & monthly stock counts; investigate variances.

• Income statement compilation and reporting

• Maintain accurate records of requisitions, issues, GRVs, and transfers.

Financial & POS Management

• Ensure POS system is operational at all times.

• Set up and update menu items, recipes, pricing, and product codes in POS.

• Monitor cash-ups and daily sales reconciliations; ensure banking procedures are followed.

• Track sales performance, wastage, and cost of sales.

• Support monitoring of online ordering or digital sales channels.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all health and safety, HACCP, and OHS regulations.

• Maintain hygiene schedules, cleaning checklists, and incident logs.

• Conduct and document safety inspections, fire drills, and equipment checks.

• Train staff on food safety, fire safety, and emergency procedures.

Customer Service & Experience

• Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and resolve complaints promptly.

• Build relationships with customers to encourage regular use of the canteen.

• Regularly collect feedback and implement service improvements.

• Promote a welcoming and efficient service culture.

Reporting & Administration

• Prepare weekly/monthly reports on sales, stock, wastage, and staff performance.

• Provide feedback to operations management on canteen operations, challenges, and improvements.

• Ensure compliance with financial documentation, invoices, and procurement policies.

• Support sustainability initiatives (eco-friendly products, waste reduction, recycling).

Package & Remuneration

R25 000 - R27 000 CTC per month

Interested?

Email CVs to hannah@proappoint.co.za