Catering and events Manager

Catering & Events Manager

Location: Galway

Reports To: Head of Catering & Events

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Gourmet Food Parlour

At Gourmet Food Parlour, we're incredibly proud of what we've built over the past 20 years.

What started as a single cafe has grown into one of Ireland's leading independent hospitality businesses, employing over 320 people across multiple restaurants, premium retail locations, and a thriving catering division.

Our catering business continues to grow, delivering exceptional food and service to corporate clients, private events, weddings, and special occasions throughout Ireland. We're now looking for an ambitious, commercially minded Catering & Events Manager to lead and grow our Galway operation.

About the Role

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys both sales and operations. You'll be responsible for driving catering and events business across Galway while leading the day-to-day operation of our catering department.

Working closely with the Head of Catering & Events, you'll build lasting client relationships, oversee successful event delivery, lead a talented team of chefs, drivers and event staff, and ensure every event reflects the high standards Gourmet Food Parlour is known for.

This is a hands-on management role where no two days are the same.

What You'll Be Responsible For

Business Development & Sales

Growing the catering and events business across Galway.

Building strong relationships with corporate clients, venues and private customers.

Identifying new business opportunities and developing existing accounts.

Preparing quotations, following up enquiries and converting leads into bookings.

Working closely with the Commercial Team and Head of Catering & Events to maximise sales opportunities.

Attending events to ensure exceptional client service and identify future business opportunities.

Catering & Events Operations

Managing the day-to-day operation of the Galway catering department.

Planning and coordinating catering events from enquiry through to delivery.

Ensuring staffing, logistics and event preparation run smoothly.

Working alongside the kitchen team to deliver a seamless just-in-time catering operation.

Maintaining Gourmet Food Parlour's presentation and service standards at every event.

Team Leadership

Leading, motivating and developing chefs, drivers and event staff.

Managing rotas in line with business needs and labour budgets.

Conducting regular team meetings and communicating business performance.

Supporting recruitment, onboarding and training of new team members.

Managing performance, attendance and employee development in line with company policies.

Logistics & Fleet Management

Coordinating driver schedules and delivery routes.

Ensuring company vehicles and catering equipment are maintained and used safely.

Monitoring catering equipment, stock and inventory.

Reporting maintenance requirements and equipment issues promptly.

Food Safety & Compliance

Maintaining the highest standards of HACCP, food safety and hygiene.

Ensuring all catering operations comply with company and legal standards.

Completing regular stock checks and maintaining accurate records.

Driving a culture of quality, safety and continuous improvement.

Financial & Operational Performance

Monitoring sales performance and operational KPIs.

Managing labour, food and operational costs to achieve budget targets.

Supporting forecasting and business planning.

Preparing weekly reports for the Head of Catering & Events.

Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability.

About You

You'll be a confident people manager with a passion for hospitality and a commercial mindset. You'll thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy building relationships, and take pride in delivering exceptional customer experiences.

You'll ideally have:

Previous management experience in catering, hospitality or events.

A proven track record in sales, business development or account management.

Strong leadership and team development skills.

Excellent organisational and planning abilities.

Outstanding communication and customer service skills.

A proactive, hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving ability.

Experience managing budgets, labour costs and operational performance.

Knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards.

A full clean driving licence is essential.

Why Join Gourmet Food Parlour?

Be part of one of Ireland's leading hospitality brands.

Genuine opportunities for career progression and development.

Work with a passionate and supportive leadership team.

Discounted Staff meals while on duty.

Ongoing training and professional development.

A fast-paced role where you'll have real ownership and the opportunity to grow the business.

We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants.