Catering Coordinator - Port Hacking Conference Centres

About the Role

The Catering Coordinator leads and manages catering operations at Port Hacking Conference Centres, NSW, under the Port Hacking Centre Manager. This position combines leadership and hands-on kitchen work to ensure high-quality food service, kitchen system management, food safety, stock control, and guest satisfaction, while fostering a positive team culture shaped by Christian values and ministry focus.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily catering activities ensuring meals meet quality standards and align with schedules.
• Lead and support cooks, kitchen hands, casuals with clear instructions and team coordination.
• Manage kitchen workflows and logistics for efficient, safe, and timely service.
• Participate directly in food prep, cooking, baking, and service when necessary, especially during busy periods.
• Deliver warm, guest-focused service enhancing Youthworks' reputation.
• Continuously seek and apply improvements in catering processes and team performance.
• Lead preparation and delivery of seasonal menus, ensuring nutrition and appropriateness for diverse groups.
• Coordinate special dietary needs, managing accurate meal prep and clear documentation.
• Maintain consistent food quality, portioning, presentation, and timely service.
• Ensure proper storage, labelling, and rotation complying with food safety standards.
• Maintain high food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness in line with regulations.
• Keep accurate compliance records for food safety and operational activities.
• Manage inventory, procurement, and cost control in collaboration with management and finance.
• Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance needs promptly.
• Identify and mitigate operational and safety risks within the kitchen environment.
• Provide leadership, training, and coaching to build a positive, accountable team culture based on Christian principles.
• Assist in staff rostering alongside Centre Manager to ensure sufficient coverage.
• Communicate effectively with management, bookings, program teams, and stakeholders regarding catering operations.
• Model Christian leadership, lead devotions and prayer, and nurture spiritual growth within the team.
• Foster a ministry-centered culture focusing on gospel-driven hospitality service.
• Offer pastoral care to staff and connect with appropriate resources when required.
• Engage fully with Youthworks community activities and organizational events.
• Respond constructively to guest feedback and enhance catering service quality.
• Maintain supplier relationships ensuring quality, reliability, and value.
• Keep the Centre Manager updated on catering performance, staffing, compliance, and risks.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualifications in catering or cooking and valid food handling certificate.
• Experience leading commercial kitchen operations and cooking for large groups.
• Strong passion for catering and ability to collaborate with diverse staff.
• Willingness to work under an Anglican organization within a Christian environment.
• Preferred personal Christian faith and active church involvement.
• Experience in camp, retreat, or similar high-volume catering environments.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, hygiene, allergens, and stock control.
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and communication skills.
• Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and Excel.
• Working with Children Check cleared for employment.

Additional Desirable Skills

• Formal hospitality qualifications and Food Safety Supervisor certification.
• Experience managing special diets and training junior staff.
• Familiarity with cloud-based management systems and menu/stock cost control.

Additional Information

A current driver's license with access to personal transport is essential due to lack of public transit to the Centre. Only candidates with valid work rights in Australia should apply. Employment is contingent on a cleared Working with Children Check. Applications require a resume and cover letter submission. General queries directed to human resources email, but applications accepted through official channels only.