Catering Manager Resume Examples & Templates
4 free customizable and printable Catering Manager samples and templates for 2025. Unlock unlimited access to our AI resume builder for just $9/month and elevate your job applications effortlessly. Generating your first resume is free.
Catering Manager Resume Examples and Templates
Assistant Catering Manager Resume Example and Template
Liam Nkosi
Dynamic and detail-oriented Assistant Catering Manager with over 5 years of experience in high-end catering services. Proven ability to manage large-scale events, lead teams, and ensure exceptional client satisfaction, resulting in a 20% increase in repeat business.
Experience
- Coordinated catering for over 150 events annually, increasing revenue by 25% year-on-year
- Managed a team of 10 catering staff, providing training and leadership to enhance service delivery
- Developed customized catering menus for diverse clientele, enhancing guest satisfaction ratings by 30%
- Assisted in planning and executing over 100 corporate and private events, ensuring smooth operations
- Established vendor relationships that reduced catering costs by 15% without compromising quality
- Implemented feedback systems that improved overall client satisfaction scores to 95%
Education
Skills
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong quantifiable achievements
The resume effectively highlights quantifiable achievements, such as a '25% year-on-year revenue increase' and a '30% enhancement in guest satisfaction ratings'. These metrics are crucial for a Catering Manager role, showcasing the candidate's ability to deliver measurable results in event management.
Relevant work experience
With over 5 years in catering, including a current role as Assistant Catering Manager, the experience detailed shows a solid foundation in managing events and teams. This directly aligns with the responsibilities expected of a Catering Manager, making the candidate a strong fit for the position.
Effective skills alignment
The skills listed, such as 'Event Planning', 'Team Leadership', and 'Client Relations', are directly relevant to the Catering Manager role. This alignment ensures that the resume appeals to both hiring managers and ATS, increasing the chances of being noticed.
Compelling introduction
The introduction succinctly outlines the candidate's experience and achievements, such as a '20% increase in repeat business'. This sets a strong tone for the rest of the resume and effectively communicates the candidate's value proposition for a Catering Manager role.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Limited use of industry-specific keywords
While the resume includes relevant skills, it could benefit from additional industry-specific keywords such as 'catering logistics' and 'event budgeting'. Incorporating these terms would enhance ATS compatibility and demonstrate deeper industry knowledge for the Catering Manager role.
Lacks a summary of soft skills
The resume focuses heavily on technical skills and achievements but does not highlight soft skills essential for a Catering Manager, such as 'communication' and 'problem-solving'. Including these could provide a more rounded picture of the candidate's capabilities.
No clear career progression
While the resume lists relevant experience, it lacks an explanation of how the roles have progressed. Adding a brief note on career advancement or changes in responsibility would illustrate the candidate's growth and readiness for a Catering Manager position.
Absence of professional affiliations
Including memberships in professional organizations related to catering or hospitality could enhance the resume. This demonstrates commitment to the industry and ongoing professional development, which is valuable for a Catering Manager role.
Catering Manager Resume Example and Template
Luis Torres
Mexico City, Mexico • [email protected] • +52 55 1234 5678 • himalayas.app/@luistorres
Professional summary
Education
Experience
- Managed catering operations for over 200 events annually, serving up to 1,000 guests per event
- Implemented new menu designs and service styles, leading to a 25% increase in customer satisfaction ratings
- Supervised a team of 20 catering staff, providing training and development to enhance service quality
- Assisted in the planning and execution of over 150 corporate and private events
- Coordinated with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of services and products
- Developed and maintained relationships with clients, leading to a 40% increase in repeat business
Skills
Technical: Event Planning, Customer Service, Menu Development, Team Management, Budgeting, Vendor Negotiation
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong impact in experience section
The work experience section highlights significant achievements, such as managing over 200 events annually and improving customer satisfaction ratings by 25%. These quantifiable results are crucial for a Catering Manager role, showcasing the candidate's effectiveness in driving results.
Compelling summary statement
The introductory summary effectively conveys the candidate's extensive experience and proven track record in enhancing client satisfaction. This tailored approach positions Luis as a strong contender for the Catering Manager role by immediately showcasing relevant skills and achievements.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes essential competencies for a Catering Manager, such as Event Planning and Vendor Negotiation. This alignment with the job role ensures that the resume captures the attention of hiring managers and passes through ATS checks effectively.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks specific metrics for all achievements
While some achievements are quantified, others could benefit from similar metrics. For instance, detailing the financial impact of the budget management or the scale of events managed would strengthen the resume further for the Catering Manager position.
No mention of industry-specific software
The resume does not include any industry-specific software or tools that a Catering Manager might use, such as catering management software or event planning tools. Including these would enhance the resume's relevance and improve ATS compatibility.
Experience section could be more concise
Some bullet points in the experience section are quite detailed. Simplifying these to focus on the most impactful contributions would enhance readability and ensure key achievements stand out more effectively for the Catering Manager role.
Senior Catering Manager Resume Example and Template
Maximilian Müller
Berlin, Germany • [email protected] • +49 151 2345 6789 • himalayas.app/@maximilianmueller
Professional summary
Education
Experience
- Oversaw catering operations for 200+ events per year, achieving a 95% client satisfaction rate.
- Developed innovative menu offerings that increased event bookings by 30% year-over-year.
- Managed a team of 15 catering staff, providing training and performance evaluations to enhance service quality.
- Coordinated logistics for large-scale corporate events, handling budgets up to €500,000.
- Established partnerships with local vendors, reducing food costs by 20% while maintaining quality.
- Implemented a new inventory management system, decreasing food waste by 15%.
- Assisted in managing a team of 10 catering staff, ensuring high standards of service during events.
- Organized and executed over 100 private and corporate events, receiving consistent positive feedback.
- Handled customer inquiries and complaints, achieving a resolution rate of 98%.
Skills
Technical: Event Planning, Culinary Management, Budgeting, Vendor Negotiation, Team Leadership, Client Relations
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong impact metrics
The resume effectively highlights quantifiable results, such as achieving a 95% client satisfaction rate and increasing event bookings by 30%. This type of data is essential for a Catering Manager role, as it showcases the candidate's ability to deliver measurable success.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes essential competencies such as 'Event Planning' and 'Vendor Negotiation,' which are directly aligned with the responsibilities of a Catering Manager. This alignment is crucial for both ATS and hiring managers to quickly assess fit for the role.
Comprehensive experience section
The extensive work experience section details various roles with increasing responsibilities, demonstrating a clear career progression in catering management. This gives a strong impression of the candidate's readiness for a Catering Manager position.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Summary could be more tailored
The introductory summary is somewhat generic and could be more tailored to the specifics of the Catering Manager role. Adding a few targeted keywords or phrases from the job description could strengthen its relevance and impact.
Lack of specific culinary skills
While the skills section lists essential competencies, it lacks specific culinary skills or techniques that may be relevant for a Catering Manager. Including skills such as 'Menu Development' or 'Culinary Trends' could enhance the resume's appeal to hiring managers.
No certifications mentioned
The resume does not mention any relevant certifications, such as ServSafe or Certified Executive Chef. Including certifications would add credibility and demonstrate a commitment to professional development in the catering field.
Catering Director Resume Example and Template
Anna Müller
Dynamic and results-oriented Catering Director with over 10 years of experience in managing high-profile catering operations and leading diverse teams. Proven track record of delivering exceptional client experiences and executing large-scale events, while driving profitability and operational efficiency.
Experience
- Managed catering services for over 500 events annually, increasing client satisfaction rating to 95%
- Implemented new inventory management system, reducing food waste by 30%
- Led a team of 25 catering staff, focusing on training and development to enhance service quality
- Coordinated catering for corporate events and weddings, serving up to 1,000 guests
- Developed vendor relationships that reduced food costs by 15% while maintaining quality
- Executed marketing strategies that increased event bookings by 40% year-over-year
Education
Skills
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong experience section
The work experience highlights significant achievements with quantifiable results, such as 'increasing client satisfaction rating to 95%' and 'reducing food waste by 30%'. This directly showcases the candidate's capabilities as a Catering Manager, emphasizing their impact on operations and client satisfaction.
Relevant educational background
The candidate holds a B.A. in Hospitality Management, which is highly relevant for a Catering Manager role. This educational background supports their practical experience, reinforcing their qualifications in event planning and catering management.
Effective use of action verbs
The resume employs strong action verbs like 'Managed', 'Implemented', and 'Executed', which convey leadership and initiative. This language is compelling and aligns well with the responsibilities expected of a Catering Manager.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks a tailored summary
The summary could be improved by specifically mentioning skills and experiences that relate directly to the Catering Manager role. Adding references to strategic planning or customer service skills would enhance its relevance and impact.
Skills section could be enhanced
While the skills listed are relevant, including specific industry keywords like 'Vendor Negotiation' or 'Event Budgeting' could improve ATS compatibility and make the resume stand out more to hiring managers looking for a Catering Manager.
Formatting could be improved for ATS
The resume could benefit from a more standard format without complex HTML elements in the experience descriptions. Simplifying the structure would improve readability for both ATS and human reviewers.
1. How to write a Catering Manager resume
Breaking into the catering management field can be tough, especially when you're competing against many candidates with similar backgrounds. How do you ensure your resume catches the hiring manager's eye? Employers want to see your ability to plan events and manage client relationships, not just a list of past jobs. Unfortunately, many job seekers focus on job titles instead of showcasing their actual achievements and impact.
This guide will help you craft a compelling resume that highlights your strengths in event planning and team leadership. You'll learn how to turn basic job duties into impressive accomplishments, like "Coordinated over 100 events, increasing client satisfaction by 30%." We’ll focus on key sections like your work experience and summary. By the end, you'll have a polished resume that tells your unique professional story.
Use the right format for a Catering Manager resume
When crafting your resume for a catering manager role, the chronological format is usually the best choice. This format highlights your work history in reverse order, making your most recent and relevant experience stand out. If you have a steady career progression in catering, this format showcases your growth effectively. On the other hand, if you're changing careers or have gaps in employment, a combination or functional format might be more suitable to emphasize relevant skills over job titles.
Remember to keep your resume ATS-friendly. Use clear section headings, avoid complex graphics, and refrain from using tables or columns. This ensures that your resume can be easily read by applicant tracking systems.
Craft an impactful Catering Manager resume summary
Your resume summary is crucial for catching the hiring manager's attention. For experienced candidates, a resume summary is ideal, while entry-level candidates or career changers should use an objective statement. A strong summary formula is: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'. This formula allows you to present a quick snapshot of your expertise and accomplishments.
For a catering manager, highlight your experience in event management, customer service, and team leadership. Make sure to reference any impressive accomplishments, like managing large events or increasing client satisfaction ratings.
Good resume summary example
Summary: Dynamic catering manager with over 7 years of experience in event planning and food service management. Proven ability to lead teams and exceed client expectations, having successfully organized over 100 events with a 95% satisfaction rate.
Why this works: This summary is specific, showcasing years of experience, key skills, and a quantifiable achievement, making it impactful for potential employers.
Bad resume summary example
Objective: Seeking a catering manager position to utilize my skills in event planning and food service.
Why this fails: This objective is vague and fails to highlight specific accomplishments or relevant experience, making it less compelling for hiring managers.
Highlight your Catering Manager work experience
When listing your work experience, always use reverse-chronological order. Include the job title, company name, and dates of employment. Start each bullet point with strong action verbs and focus on quantifiable achievements. For example, instead of saying you were 'responsible for managing events', say 'coordinated 50+ events annually, increasing client retention by 30%'. This not only shows what you did but also emphasizes the impact of your efforts.
Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your accomplishments effectively. This approach helps you articulate your contributions clearly, which is crucial for a catering manager.
Good work experience example
Bullet Point: Coordinated over 100 corporate events in 2022, resulting in a 25% increase in repeat business and a 30% boost in overall client satisfaction.
Why this works: This bullet point starts with a strong action verb and quantifies the impact of the work, making it clear how the candidate contributed to the company's success.
Bad work experience example
Bullet Point: Managed events and worked with vendors to ensure everything was ready.
Why this fails: This point is too vague and lacks specific results or metrics that demonstrate the candidate's achievements or contributions.
Present relevant education for a Catering Manager
In your education section, list the school name, degree earned, and graduation year. For recent graduates, this section should be more prominent, perhaps even including GPA or relevant coursework if it applies. For those with more experience, keep this section brief and focus on relevant certifications. If you have completed courses in hospitality management or event planning, include those as well.
Make sure to format this section clearly, as it reflects your educational background and qualifications for the catering manager role.
Good education example
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management
University of Culinary Arts, 2018
Relevant Coursework: Event Planning, Catering Management, Food Safety
Why this works: This entry is clear and showcases relevant education, making it easy for employers to see the candidate's qualifications.
Bad education example
Some College Coursework Completed
Local Community College, 2016
Why this fails: This entry lacks specifics about what was studied and does not convey a clear path towards the catering management position.
Add essential skills for a Catering Manager resume
Technical skills for a Catering Manager resume
Soft skills for a Catering Manager resume
Include these powerful action words on your Catering Manager resume
Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:
Add additional resume sections for a Catering Manager
Consider adding sections for certifications, awards, or relevant projects. These can make your resume more impactful by showcasing your commitment to professional development and your achievements in catering. If you've received any accolades for your service or have completed certifications in food safety or event management, include those to differentiate yourself from other candidates.
Good example
Certifications:
Certified Food Safety Manager (CFSM)
Event Planning Certification, Catering Institute
Why this works: Showing relevant certifications highlights your qualifications and commitment to the catering industry, making you a more attractive candidate.
Bad example
Interest in Cooking and Food Events
Why this fails: This section doesn't add value to your application and doesn't relate directly to the skills or qualifications needed for a catering manager role.
2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Catering Manager
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that help employers manage the hiring process. They scan resumes for keywords and specific formats to determine if a candidate fits the job. For a Catering Manager, optimizing your resume for ATS is key because it can make or break your chances of getting noticed.
To optimize your resume, start with standard section titles like 'Work Experience', 'Education', and 'Skills'. Incorporate keywords from Catering Manager job descriptions, such as 'menu planning', 'event coordination', and 'vendor negotiation'. Avoid complex formatting like tables or columns, as these can confuse the ATS. Stick to readable fonts and use file formats like PDF or .docx to ensure compatibility.
Common mistakes include using creative synonyms instead of exact keywords, relying on formatting that the ATS may misinterpret, and omitting crucial keywords related to your skills. By avoiding these pitfalls, you'll greatly improve your chances of passing the ATS and landing an interview.
ATS-compatible example
Skills:
- Menu Planning
- Event Coordination
- Vendor Negotiation
- Budget Management
Why this works: This skills section uses relevant keywords directly from catering job descriptions. It’s clear and straightforward, making it easy for the ATS to parse and identify your qualifications.
ATS-incompatible example
Abilities:
- Creative menu designs
- Organizing events
- Working with suppliers
- Financial oversight
Why this fails: Using non-standard section headers like 'Abilities' can confuse ATS systems. Additionally, the keywords used here are more creative and less aligned with what employers typically look for in a Catering Manager role, which could lead to missed opportunities.
3. How to format and design a Catering Manager resume
When you're creating a resume for a Catering Manager position, choosing the right template is crucial. Opt for a clean, professional layout that highlights your experience and skills. A reverse-chronological format works best because it showcases your most recent achievements first, making it easier for hiring managers to see your qualifications at a glance.
Your resume should ideally be one page, especially if you're at the entry or mid-career level. However, if you have extensive experience or a long history in catering management, a two-page resume is acceptable. Just remember to keep things concise.
For fonts, go with something professional like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia, and use a size between 10-12pt for the body text and 14-16pt for headers. Make sure to leave enough white space between sections to improve readability. Avoid overly creative designs; they can confuse Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and make your resume harder to read.
Common mistakes include using too many colors or non-standard fonts that can detract from your professionalism. Also, steer clear of complex templates with columns or graphics that ATS might struggle to interpret. And always use clear, standard section headings to guide the reader through your resume.
Well formatted example
Wallace Hahn
Catering Manager
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number] | [Your Email Address]
Experience
Catering Manager
Kozey Group, [Location] | [Dates]
- Managed catering services for events up to 500 guests.
- Developed menus in collaboration with clients to meet dietary preferences.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management
[Your University], [Year]
This layout is effective because it’s clean and structured, allowing hiring managers to easily read through your qualifications and experience. It also remains ATS-friendly, ensuring your resume gets through initial screenings.
Poorly formatted example
Mozelle Conroy
Catering Manager
[Your Address] | [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email Address]
Experience
Catering Manager
Sporer and Lehner, [Location] | [Dates]
- Oversaw catering operations for various events.
- Created visually appealing menus that attracted clients.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
[Your University], [Year]
This format has issues because it doesn’t provide enough white space, making it look cluttered. The use of too many graphics or creative elements can also confuse ATS, potentially leading to your resume being overlooked.
4. Cover letter for a Catering Manager
A tailored cover letter is essential for a Catering Manager position. It complements your resume and shows your genuine interest in the role. This is your chance to stand out by showcasing your personality and relevant skills.
Your letter should start with your contact information and the company's details. Then, include the date. This sets a professional tone right from the beginning.
The first paragraph needs to grab attention. State that you're applying for the Catering Manager position. Share your enthusiasm for the company and highlight your most compelling qualification. Mention how you found the job opening, whether through a job board or a referral.
- Body Paragraphs: Connect your experience directly to the job requirements.
- Highlight key projects you've managed, especially in catering or events.
- Showcase specific technical skills like budgeting and vendor negotiation.
- Mention relevant soft skills, such as leadership and communication.
- Include quantifiable achievements, like increased customer satisfaction or successful events.
Make sure to tailor your content for the company and role, using keywords from the job description.
For the closing paragraph, reiterate your strong interest in the Catering Manager role. Express confidence in your ability to contribute positively. Include a call to action, like requesting an interview, and thank the reader for their time.
Maintain a professional yet enthusiastic tone throughout. Customize your letter for each application to avoid sounding generic.
Sample a Catering Manager cover letter
Dear Hiring Team,
I am excited to apply for the Catering Manager position at Gourmet Events. I discovered the opening on your company’s website, and I believe my experience in managing high-profile events makes me a perfect fit for your team.
In my previous role at Elegant Affairs, I successfully coordinated over 50 large-scale catering events, which included weddings and corporate functions. My ability to negotiate with vendors led to a 15% reduction in costs while maintaining quality service. I excel at budgeting and ensuring that all aspects of an event run smoothly.
I pride myself on my strong leadership and communication skills, which help me manage teams effectively and maintain client relationships. In my last position, I increased customer satisfaction ratings by 20%, a testament to my dedication to exceeding client expectations.
I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my expertise to Gourmet Events. I am confident that my background in catering management will allow me to contribute positively to your team. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application further. Thank you for considering my application!
Sincerely,
Emma Johnson
5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Catering Manager resume
Creating a solid resume is essential for a Catering Manager. You want to showcase your organizational skills, customer service experience, and ability to manage events effectively. Paying attention to details and avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in how employers perceive your application.
Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of while crafting your resume.
Avoid vague job descriptions
Mistake Example: "Responsible for catering events."
Correction: Be specific about your role and achievements. Instead, write: "Coordinated over 50 corporate events, managing logistics and menu planning for up to 500 guests each."
Generic applications
Mistake Example: "I have experience in event planning and food service."
Correction: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience. Instead, say: "Successfully organized a three-day wedding expo, overseeing vendor coordination and food service for 1,000 attendees."
Ignoring typos and grammatical errors
Mistake Example: "Managed caterig for multiple events, ensuring satisfaction"
Correction: Proofread your resume carefully. A better version would be: "Managed catering for multiple events, ensuring client satisfaction and timely service."
Overstating skills or experience
Mistake Example: "Expert in all types of cuisines and catering styles."
Correction: Be honest about your expertise. Instead, try: "Proficient in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, with hands-on experience in event catering for diverse clientele."
Using poor formatting for ATS
Mistake Example: "Catering Manager - 2018 - Present. Duties included managing events, customer service, and food prep."
Correction: Use clear headings and bullet points to enhance readability. A better format could be: "Catering Manager
2018 - Present
- Managed logistics for over 75 events annually.
- Developed menus tailored to client needs.
- Oversaw staff training and scheduling.
6. FAQs about Catering Manager resumes
Creating a great resume as a Catering Manager involves highlighting your organizational skills, event planning experience, and customer service expertise. This section will provide you with helpful FAQs and tips to enhance your resume.
What skills should I include on my Catering Manager resume?
What skills should I include on my Catering Manager resume?
Focus on skills like event planning, budgeting, customer service, and team leadership. Also, include knowledge of food safety regulations and vendor management.
What is the best format for a Catering Manager resume?
What is the best format for a Catering Manager resume?
Use a chronological format to highlight your work history. Start with your most recent job and list your relevant experience and achievements clearly.
How long should my Catering Manager resume be?
How long should my Catering Manager resume be?
Keep it to one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. For more extensive backgrounds, two pages can be acceptable.
How can I showcase my event planning projects on my resume?
How can I showcase my event planning projects on my resume?
List specific events you've managed, detailing your role, the size of the event, and the outcomes. Use metrics to show success, like guest satisfaction or revenue generated.
Should I include certifications on my Catering Manager resume?
Should I include certifications on my Catering Manager resume?
Yes, list any relevant certifications such as food safety, event planning, or management courses. These can help validate your expertise to employers.
Pro Tips
Highlight Your Achievements
Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact, like the number of events managed or revenue generated. This shows employers what you can bring to the table.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
Customize your resume for each application by using keywords from the job description. This helps your resume get noticed by hiring managers and applicant tracking systems.
Showcase Your Soft Skills
Catering Managers need strong interpersonal skills. Mention your ability to work in teams, resolve conflicts, and communicate effectively with clients and staff.
7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Catering Manager resume
Creating an effective resume as a Catering Manager involves showcasing your unique skills and experiences. Here are some key takeaways:
- Use a clean and professional format that's easy to read and ATS-friendly.
- Highlight your relevant skills, like event planning, client relations, and food service management, tailored specifically to catering.
- Employ strong action verbs, and quantify your achievements, such as the number of successful events managed or customer satisfaction ratings.
- Incorporate keywords from the job description to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems.
Take your time to craft a compelling resume that reflects your expertise and passion for catering. Consider using resume-building tools or templates to help you get started!
Similar Resume Examples
Simple pricing, powerful features
Upgrade to Himalayas Plus and turbocharge your job search.
Himalayas
Himalayas Plus
Trusted by hundreds of job seekers • Easy to cancel • No penalties or fees
Get started for freeNo credit card required