Assistant Manager - Hub Catering… at United Airlines · San…

Why Inflight Services?

Our customers choose United because of our dedication to safety and passion for service. United's Inflight Services team is made up of diverse, driven individuals working together to Connect People and Unite the World. From operational leadership and crew planning to safety and service procedures, our Inflight Services team provides the innovative approaches, tools, training and guidance needed for our flight attendants to deliver the best possible customer experience, and aid in our mission to become the best airline in the history of aviation.

Job Overview and Responsibilities

The Assistant Manager, Catering Operations provides direct leadership to Catering Operations Supervisors and supports day-to-day kitchen performance. This role ensures consistent operational execution, drives performance improvements, and strengthens frontline leadership capability.

• Operational Leadership:
  • Oversee a multi-site operating model with consistent in-field leadership presence, including traveling between facilities and on the ramp to ensure operational excellence, compliance, and performance accountability
  • Lead and coach a team of Catering Operations Supervisors
  • Ensure consistent execution of safety, quality, and on-time performance standards across shifts
  • Oversee and at times provide MOD coverage and support disruption management (IRROPS, recovery efforts)
  • Partner with catering vendors and operational stakeholders to resolve issues quickly
  • Overseeing a multi-facility operational model, involving
• Performance & Accountability:
  • Monitor key performance metrics and drive corrective actions
  • Review delays, safety incidents, and customer feedback to identify trends
  • Ensure timely closure of reports and compliance requirements
  • Support caterer labor planning and staffing readiness
  • Conduct regular audits ensuring compliance with Catering Operations Business Manual, United
  • Airlines Safety Standards, and other regulatory requirements
  • Lead investigations into safety incidents including corrective action planning
  • Facilitate partnership with United Airlines Food Safety and operational Safety/Security teams
• Team Development:
  • Provide coaching, performance feedback, and development planning for supervisors
  • Reinforce accountability and operational discipline.
• Leadership & Collaboration:
  • Serve as primary liaison between Catering vendors and all relevant stakeholders
  • Facilitate and/or lead sustainable operational improvements from conception to completion
  • Serve as consultant and subject matter expert as needed providing guidance and advice to catering partners and local operating groups
• Change Management:
  • Partner with the Corporate Support Center and leadership teams to provide guidance in change management and communication plans for initiatives
  • Provide on-site support and monitoring of adoption and success for new initiatives
  • Support execution of new menu concepts and service enhancements

What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):

• Bachelor's degree or 4 years of relevant work experience
• Manufacturing Operations, Business, Airport Operations, or Related Field
• Minimum 4 years leadership experience in Operations, Engineering, Vendor Management, Manufacturing, or similar functions
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience leading frontline leaders
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, identify trends, and generate actionable insights and recommendations, intermediate Microsoft Excel skills
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to lead in a fast-paced, 24/7 operational environment
• Experience leading projects and/or initiatives with measurable results; ability to lead stakeholders through planning and implementation of initiatives
• Effective business writing and speaking skills and confidence engaging with all levels of leadership internally and externally; ability to independently create PowerPoint
• Willingness to work during non-standard hours and peak periods when needed to support a global 24/7/365 operation
• Willingness to work on-site 100% in an airport and/or catering facility office
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
• Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
• Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):

• Bachelor's degree
• Catering Operations
• Project management
• LEAN Six Sigma
• HACCP, PCQI or equivalent food safety certificates
• Airline catering leadership experience
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills