Head of Catering Operations

About the role

The Head of Catering Operations will shape the strategic direction of the airline’s global catering services, covering both in‑flight and lounge experiences. Reporting to senior leadership, this role drives innovation, operational excellence, and stakeholder collaboration to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Key responsibilities

• Define and own the long‑term strategic roadmap for global catering, aligning with guest experience and business priorities.
• Anticipate emerging trends in customer preferences, sustainability and technology to keep the airline at the forefront of aviation catering.
• Develop integrated catering models that optimise the end‑to‑end value chain from product design to delivery.
• Oversee global catering contracts, commercial negotiations and vendor governance, ensuring cost‑efficiency, scalability and service‑level adherence.
• Manage the catering budget and financial planning processes, identifying cost‑saving opportunities without compromising quality.
• Lead transformation initiatives through process improvement, digitisation and automation.
• Monitor operational KPIs, quality assurance, on‑time delivery, cost performance, customer satisfaction and compliance with food‑safety and aviation regulations.
• Coordinate menu cycles, equipment forecasts and logistical flows with network scheduling, procurement and supplier capabilities.

Required profile

• Minimum 12 years of experience in catering, hospitality or related operations, preferably within the aviation sector.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, commercial governance and large‑scale contract management.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing multi‑million‑dollar budgets.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high‑impact teams and drive data‑driven decision‑making.

Required skills