Senior Manager – In-Flight Catering -Westair Group

Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Senior Manager of In-Flight Catering to oversee all aspects of our catering operations. In this role, you will lead a team of professionals to ensure the seamless delivery of in-flight meals, maintain compliance with aviation regulations, and drive innovation in menu design and service quality. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in catering or food service management, a deep understanding of the aviation industry, and a proven track record of leading high-performing teams in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Oversee the end-to-end in-flight catering process, including menu planning, food production, packaging, and delivery to aircraft, ensuring timely and accurate service for all flights.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of catering staff, including chefs, logistics coordinators, and quality assurance specialists, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Menu Innovation: Collaborate with culinary teams and airline partners to design creative, culturally diverse, and dietary-inclusive menus that enhance the passenger experience while adhering to budget and operational constraints.
• Quality & Safety Compliance: Ensure all catering operations comply with aviation safety standards (e.g., HACCP, FDA, IATA), airline-specific requirements, and local health regulations, maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.
• Vendor & Supply Chain Management: Manage relationships with suppliers, negotiate contracts, and ensure the consistent availability of high-quality ingredients and materials, optimizing costs without compromising quality.
• Budget & Cost Control: Develop and manage the catering budget, monitor expenses, and implement cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service excellence.
• Client Relationships: Act as the primary point of contact for airline clients, addressing their needs, resolving issues, and ensuring satisfaction with catering services.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to streamline operations, implement new technologies, and enhance efficiency in food production, inventory management, and delivery processes.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Drive sustainability efforts by implementing eco-friendly practices, such as reducing food waste, using sustainable packaging, and sourcing local ingredients where possible.
• Performance Reporting: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), prepare reports for senior leadership, and use data-driven insights to improve operational performance and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in catering, hospitality, or food service management, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role. Experience in in-flight catering or the aviation industry is highly preferred.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g. HACCP) is a plus.
• Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of aviation catering regulations, airline operations, and the unique challenges of delivering food services in a high-pressure environment.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and motivate teams, manage cross-functional projects, and drive operational excellence.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with airline clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make quick decisions in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Financial Acumen: Experience managing budgets, controlling costs, and delivering on financial targets.
• Drivers license
• Namibian Citizenship or permanent residence

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Applications close on 22 April 2025.