Mess Manager

Job Description: Mess Manager University Hostel Mess (4-10 ) ( Years Experience)
Location: Rama University , Kanpur
Department: Hostel/Student Services
Reports To: Principal /Dean

Job Overview:

We are looking for a Mess Manager with 4-10 years of experience to manage and oversee all operations related to the university hostel mess. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in food service management, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of hostel students. This role requires overseeing food preparation, managing staff, ensuring hygiene standards, addressing student concerns, and maintaining a high-quality dining experience.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Mess Operations Management:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the hostel mess, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning.
• Supervise meal preparation and serving, ensuring timely delivery of meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
• Ensure the proper organization of food items, including storage, preparation, and serving, to maintain the highest quality standards.
• Monitor and enforce cleanliness and hygiene in both kitchen and dining areas.

2. Staff Supervision and Training:

• Recruit, train, and supervise mess staff, including cooks, kitchen helpers, servers, and cleaning staff.
• Ensure that staff members follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and are fully trained in food safety, cleanliness, and customer service.
• Develop work schedules and ensure there is sufficient staff during peak meal times.

3. Menu Planning and Food Quality:

• Develop balanced and nutritious menus that cater to diverse dietary preferences and restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal).
• Maintain consistent food quality and taste while managing cost-effectiveness.
• Regularly review and adjust the menu based on student feedback, nutritional needs, and seasonal availability of ingredients.

4. Inventory and Budget Management:

• Oversee the procurement, storage, and inventory management of food supplies and other essential items.
• Ensure cost control measures are in place, avoiding waste and optimizing resources.
• Prepare and manage the mess budget, track expenditure, and ensure financial targets are met.

5. Hygiene and Safety Compliance:

• Ensure strict adherence to food safety standards and hygiene practices, including proper handling, storage, and preparation of food.
• Conduct regular inspections to maintain a clean and safe working environment in both kitchen and dining areas.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, such as sanitation and food handling.

6. Student Interaction and Feedback:

• Act as the primary point of contact for students regarding mess-related concerns, including food quality, service, and other issues.
• Address student complaints, suggestions, and feedback promptly and professionally.
• Implement student feedback into menu planning and service improvement initiatives.

7. Reporting and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate records of meal counts, staff attendance, inventory usage, and financial transactions.
• Prepare regular reports on mess operations, food consumption, and budget status for the Hostel Warden or Head of Student Affairs.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management, Culinary Arts, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience: 3-6 years of experience in food service or mess management, preferably in an educational or hostel setting.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of food safety, nutrition, hygiene standards, and kitchen operations.
• Skills:
• Leadership and staff management skills.
• Budgeting and inventory control experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing requirements.

Desired Attributes:

• Passionate about providing a positive and healthy dining experience for students.
• High level of organization and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle large-scale operations and manage multiple tasks.
• Flexible and proactive approach to address issues as they arise.