Catering Manager

Port Hacking Conference Centres | Youthworks Outdoors

Permanent, Full-time

 

Youthworks is seeking an accomplished Catering Manager to lead and transform catering operations across our beautiful conference centre locations at Port Hacking, Shoalhaven, Blue Mountains and Loftus.

This is a senior leadership role suited to an experienced hospitality professional who is passionate about excellence, people development, and working within a Christian ministry environment.

 

About Youthworks

Youthworks is an Anglican organisation serving children, youth and families through partnerships with churches, schools and communities. Through our conference centres and ministry programs, we provide outstanding Christian hospitality in inspiring locations, believing that every interaction is an opportunity to demonstrate grace, service and the love of Christ.

 

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Venues & Ministry Programs, the Catering Manager provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of all catering services across four sites.

You will lead the main kitchen team at Port Hacking (including service to Loftus), while providing strategic oversight, mentoring and support to kitchen operations at Shoalhaven and the Blue Mountains.

This role combines hands-on leadership, strategic planning, and multi-site operational management, with a strong focus on food quality, cost control, compliance, team development, and guest experience , all within a Christ-centred workplace culture.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Leadership & Innovation

  • Develop and implement a clear vision that enhances guest experience and reflects Youthworks’ mission and values

  • Design, standardise and continuously improve menus across all sites, including special events and dietary requirements

  • Ensure consistent food quality, presentation and service standards

  • Monitor industry trends and integrate sustainable and innovative food practices

  • Multi-Site Catering Operations

  • Establish and maintain standardised kitchen systems, procedures and quality controls

  • Oversee food procurement, inventory management and cost control across all locations

  • Conduct regular site visits to support teams, ensure consistency and identify improvements

  • Implement and track key performance indicators and continuous improvement initiatives

  • Ensure high standards of food safety, hygiene and compliance with all regulations

  • Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance, upgrades and replacement in collaboration with internal teams

  • Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts, including in remote locations

  • People Leadership & Development

  • Lead, mentor and inspire catering teams across multiple sites

  • Develop training programs, mentoring initiatives and clear development pathways

  • Build a collaborative, high-performing team culture aligned with Youthworks’ values

  • Identify and develop future leaders through succession planning

  • Compliance, Risk & Quality

  • Ensure compliance with food safety, WHS and health regulations

  • Lead audits and implement corrective actions as required

  • Oversee specialised dietary and medical meal requirements

  • Identify and manage operational risks

  • Stakeholder Engagement

  • Work closely with venue, events, facilities and administration teams

  • Provide regular reports on performance, compliance and financial outcomes

  • Respond proactively to guest feedback to enhance the dining experience

  • Model Christ-centred leadership and Christian character in all aspects of the role

  • Participate in prayer, devotions and the wider Christian life of Youthworks

  • Foster a kitchen culture shaped by grace, integrity, excellence and mutual respect

  • Support staff pastorally where appropriate and in partnership with ministry teams

 

About You

Essential

  • Minimum 5 years’ management experience in catering or hospitality

  • Proven experience leading teams of 10+ staff, ideally across multiple sites

  • Strong budget management, cost control and commercial acumen

  • Experience in high-volume food production and event catering (100+ guests)

  • Excellent leadership, organisational and problem-solving skills

  • Sound knowledge of food safety, HACCP and regulatory compliance

  • Outstanding communication and stakeholder engagement skills

  • Alignment with Youthworks’ Christian mission and values

  • Current Working With Children Check

Desirable

  • Personal Christian faith and active church involvement

  • Formal culinary or hospitality qualifications

  • Food Safety Supervisor certification

  • Experience in camps, retreats or ministry-based catering

  • Experience designing training and professional development programs

  • Interest in sustainability and environmentally responsible food practices

 

Why Join Youthworks?

  • Work in stunning locations with purpose-driven people

  • Lead meaningful hospitality that supports Christian ministry

  • Enjoy a senior leadership role with scope to innovate and influence

  • Be part of a supportive Christian organisation committed to excellence

  • If you are a seasoned catering leader who is passionate about people, quality food, and Christian service, we would love to hear from you.

 

How to apply

Anglican Youthworks is committed to the NSW Working with Children Checks; persons who are ineligible may not apply. A valid NSW Working with Children Check number for paid employment must be obtained and verified prior to an offer of employment being made.

If you would like to find out more about this role including viewing the position description or would like to apply, please go to our website Youthworks Careers – Catering Manager

 

General enquiries can be directed to Human Resources: humanresources@youthworks.net. Please note, applications are not accepted via this email address.

Only candidates with the right to work in Australia may apply for this position.

If your skills and experience are a fit, you will be contacted by a member of our Human Resources team.