A great event is about more than just good food. It is about perfect planning and data. While chefs handle the kitchen, the people providing administrative support in catering are the ones ensuring the business actually generates a profit.
As a recruitment company, we have witnessed a significant shift. Catering companies need “operations experts” who can handle technology and fast-paced changes.
How the Role Has Changed
Years ago, an admin in a catering office just answered phones and printed menus. In 2026, things will be different. Administrative support in catering now means acting as the “control center” for the whole business.
Admins are using AI tools to predict how much food is needed, so nothing goes to waste. They also manage complex lists of guest allergies and dietary needs. Since almost half of all guests now have special requirements, the admin team is the “safety net” that prevents dangerous mistakes.
Key Skills for Catering Admins in 2026
When we recruit for catering companies today, we don’t just look for someone who can type. We look for these three things:
- Tech Skills: Can they use AI tools to give clients fast price quotes?
- Green Tracking: Can they track food origins to meet new environmental laws?
- Problem Solving: Can they fix a delivery problem or a scheduling conflict in real-time without getting stressed?
Helping Chefs Avoid Burnout
One of the biggest problems in catering is that chefs are overworked. Often, this isn’t because they are cooking too much, but it’s because they are doing too much paperwork.
By hiring strong administrative support in catering, a business allows chefs to focus on the food. The admin team handles permits, bills, and the delivery schedules. This keeps the kitchen staff happy and stops them from quitting.
Why It Makes Financial Sense
Many owners think an admin is just a “cost.” In 2026, a good admin actually helps you make money:
- Less Waste: They use software to order exactly what is needed, saving you thousands on ingredients.
- Faster Sales: Clients in 2026 want answers fast. An admin who responds to an email in minutes instead of hours wins the contract.
- Happy Clients: When the paperwork is accurate and the event is a success, clients come back again and again.
The Future for Candidates
If you are looking for a job in administrative support for catering this is a great time. These jobs now pay more and offer better career paths. You aren’t “just an assistant” anymore; you are the person running the show behind the scenes.
The catering industry is faster and more digital than it used to be. But even with all the new technology, you still need smart people to manage it.
Administrative support in catering is the engine that keeps the business moving.
Let Pineapple Recruitment find you the perfect role!
At Pineapple Recruitment, we specialise in finding the best people for administrative support in catering. We know exactly what skills are needed to succeed in finding you the best role. Head on over to our vacancies page to see the job offers active today!
