Operations Manager

Operations Manager — Inflight Catering
Wako Inflight Service, Inc.

Position Summary

Wako Inflight Service, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Operations Manager to oversee daily operations in a time-sensitive, highly regulated inflight catering environment.

This role manages purchasing, inventory, cost control, delivery logistics, airline communications, and facility and equipment maintenance. Working closely with chefs, kitchen staff, drivers, vendors, and airline partners, the Operations Manager ensures accurate, on-time service while improving efficiency and supporting food safety and quality standards.

Because Wako Inflight Service, Inc. and Wako International Corporation work closely together, this position also manages purchasing for Wako International Corporation and oversees receiving, storage, and inventory control for Wako Inflight Service, Inc.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Operations & Process Improvement

• Oversee daily non-cooking operations, coordinating closely with the Executive Chef and kitchen team.

• Ensure production and delivery schedules are followed accurately and on time.

• Review and improve workflows to increase efficiency, accuracy, and accountability.

• Provide hands-on support for kitchen operations as directed by the Executive Chef.

Purchasing, Inventory & Cost Control

• Purchase ingredients and operational supplies for both Wako Inflight Service, Inc. and Wako International Corporation.

• Manage vendor relationships, compare pricing, and maintain reliable supply while balancing cost and quality.

• Oversee receiving, proper storage, and inventory control for Wako Inflight Service, Inc.

• Calculate recipe and menu costs for each menu cycle.

• Monitor food and operating costs against profitability targets.

• Provide cost analysis to support pricing decisions for airline contracts.

Airline & Client Coordination

• Serve as the primary operational contact for airline partners, including Japan Airlines and American Airlines.

• Coordinate quarterly menu changes with airline representatives and internal chefs.

• Respond promptly and professionally to airline requests, service adjustments, and operational inquiries.

• Coordinate preparation for airline hygiene and quality inspections and follow up on required actions.

Logistics & Driver Management

• Manage driver schedules, delivery routes, and daily deliveries to JFK Airport.

• Oversee the proper handling, loading, and transportation of inflight meal carts.

• Ensure drivers follow applicable safety, security, and airport delivery procedures.

Facilities & Equipment Maintenance

• Oversee the condition and routine maintenance of kitchen equipment, refrigeration units, storage areas, the rental truck, and delivery equipment.

• Coordinate repairs and preventive maintenance with vendors and building management.

• Address equipment issues promptly to minimize downtime and maintain uninterrupted operations.

• Ensure facilities and equipment meet applicable airline and FDA hygiene, safety, and inspection requirements.

• Maintain maintenance logs and supporting documentation for audits and inspections.

People Management & Training

• Participate in interviews and provide hiring recommendations.

• Support employee onboarding and training on operational procedures, safety standards, and company expectations.

• Provide ongoing guidance and coaching to drivers, operations staff, and employees in support roles.

• Conduct or support performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.

• Identify training needs and recommend improvements to strengthen team performance.

Compliance & Quality Support

• Support compliance with applicable food safety, sanitation, hygiene, and airline standards.

• Maintain accurate operational records and inspection documentation.

• Work with the kitchen and operations teams to address issues identified during inspections and audits.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of operations management experience, preferably in food service, catering, airline services, or logistics.

• Strong understanding of recipe and menu costing, purchasing, inventory control, and vendor management.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to coordinate multiple teams and priorities in a time-sensitive environment.

• A hands-on approach to management and willingness to support daily operations.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule based on operational needs.

• Proficiency in both English and Japanese is required.

Benefits

• Paid vacation.

• Paid sick leave.

• Health insurance with a partial company contribution.

• Employee meals.

• 50% employee discount at Restaurant Nippon.