Aviation Catering - Operations Manager

Abby's Catering•Houston, TX

just now•Onsite

About The Position

Abby’s Catering, a leader in in-flight and corporate catering since 1980, serves commercial airlines, private aviation, VIP travelers, and corporate clients across the Houston area. The company is known for its reliability, exceptional customer service, and world-class food quality. As Abby's Catering continues to grow, it is strengthening its leadership team to support operational excellence in a highly regulated aviation environment. The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and directing daily operations to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution across production, warehouse, sanitation, and transportation functions. This role is accountable for operational performance, food safety compliance, labor efficiency, and team leadership within a 24/7 airline catering operation. The Operations Manager works closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to meet operational goals while maintaining Abby’s standards for safety, quality, and service. This position is full-time with a rotating schedule, including weekends and holidays as needed, and reports to the Chief Operating Officer.

Requirements

Strong leadership and decision-making skills in fast-paced, regulated environments.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead teams under tight timelines.
Strong understanding of food production operations, compliance, and safety standards.
Proficiency with operational metrics, KPIs, and reporting tools.
Effective communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate cross-functionally.
Minimum 5 years of operations or production management experience in airline catering, food manufacturing, or a similarly regulated, high-compliance environment.
Proven experience leading multi-department teams within a high-volume, time-sensitive operation.
Strong working knowledge of food safety regulations, compliance standards, and audit readiness (FDA, USDA, HACCP).
Demonstrated ability to analyze operational data, labor metrics, budgets, and KPIs to drive performance and efficiency.
Proven experience with labor forecasting, workforce planning, labor variance analysis, and COGS management.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel required, including formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis tools for labor modeling, cost forecasting, and operational reporting.
Ability to obtain and maintain TSA, Customs, and airport security clearances (10-year background).
English required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual Spanish preferred

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operational activities to ensure production schedules, staffing, and resources align with business needs.
Lead and support department managers and supervisors across production, warehouse, sanitation, and transportation.
Monitor operational performance and address issues impacting safety, quality, efficiency, or on-time delivery.
Ensure operational readiness during peak periods and high-volume flight schedules.
Maintain a visible leadership presence within operations, including production and cold-room environments.
Ensure full compliance with FDA, USDA, HACCP, TSA, and airport regulations.
Promote a strong food safety culture through training, coaching, and accountability.
Review audit findings, incident reports, and corrective actions to ensure timely resolution.
Partner with FSQA leadership to maintain documentation, inspections, and regulatory readiness.
Address safety concerns immediately and escalate issues as required.
Coach, develop, and hold leaders and team members accountable for performance and conduct.
Support hiring, onboarding, and training initiatives in collaboration with HR.
Partner with Finance, Culinary, Quality, and HR teams to meet operational and financial goals.
Communicate expectations clearly and consistently across all levels of the operation.