Caterer
Tasks & duties
Caterers may do some or all of the following:
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meet with clients to discuss the event or function
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help to plan menus
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sell and promote menu items to clients
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manage preparation of food for the event or function
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help cook the food for the event or function
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liaise with clients about services such as seating and music
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organise any additional equipment needed for the event or function
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co-ordinate staff at the event or function
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pack up equipment and clean facilities after the event or function
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build up a client base
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develop an annual business plan
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be involved with staff training
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carry out administrative tasks such as billing
Skills & knowledge
Caterers need to have:
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skill preparing, cooking and presenting food
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knowledge of how to plan and organise catering for functions such as weddings or conferences
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knowledge of food prices and how to price and set up a menu
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knowledge of new developments in food nutrition, food technology and cooking methods
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knowledge of hygiene, health and safety regulations and procedures
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planning and organisational skills
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business management skills, including budgeting, accounting, sales and marketing
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people management skills
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good communication skills
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problem-solving skills
Entry requirements
There are no specific requirements to become a caterer, but you need to have experience in working with food and preparing it for a large number of people.
Caterers who provide alcohol must have a Licence Controller Qualification and a General Manager's Certificate, which are administered by the Hospitality Standards Institute.
Secondary education
There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a caterer, but Sixth Form Certificate or NCEA equivalent food and nutrition and accounting are useful.
Tertiary education
There are no specific tertiary education requirements for caterers, although a National Certificate in Hospitality may be useful. Training in first aid, food hygiene, and occupational safety and health may also be helpful.
Training on the job
Caterers gain their skills on the job.
Catering companies often run training schemes and encourage workers to attend courses in time management, leadership, sales and computer skills.
Caterers can also work towards a National Certificate in Hospitality while working, and training is available in the NZ Army.
Useful experience
Useful experience for caterers includes:
- preparing food for a large number of people such as in a rest home or hospital kitchen
- work as a chef, kitchen assistant, waiter/waitress, maitre d'hotel or restaurant manager
- administrative work for large events
Related courses
Cookery
Food and Beverage Service
Hospitality Management
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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