Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Function Sheet • Family Style • Temperature Log

Administrative Fee

Term from Catering Services industry explained for recruiters

An Administrative Fee is a standard charge in the catering industry that covers behind-the-scenes costs of organizing and managing events. It's different from gratuity or tips, as it pays for planning time, coordination work, and office expenses. Think of it like the overhead costs that aren't visible during the event but are essential for making everything run smoothly. This fee usually appears as a percentage (typically 18-25%) of the total catering bill. When reviewing resumes in the catering industry, you'll often see this term mentioned in context of pricing, client relations, or revenue management.

Examples in Resumes

Managed client relationships and Administrative Fee policies for 200+ events annually

Implemented streamlined Administrative Fee structure resulting in 15% revenue increase

Successfully explained Administrative Fees and Service Charges to clients during booking process

Typical job title: "Catering Managers"

Also try searching for:

Event Manager Catering Coordinator Banquet Manager Event Planning Manager Food and Beverage Manager Catering Sales Manager

Where to Find Catering Managers

Professional Associations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle client pushback on administrative fees?

Expected Answer: A senior manager should explain their strategy for communicating the value of administrative fees to clients, including specific examples of how they train their team to explain these charges and maintain positive client relationships while ensuring profitability.

Q: How do you structure administrative fees for different types of events?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of different fee structures based on event size, complexity, and service level, while explaining how they maintain profitability and fairness across various event types.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between administrative fees and gratuity?

Expected Answer: Should clearly explain that administrative fees cover operational costs and planning expenses, while gratuity is meant for service staff, and demonstrate how they communicate this to clients and staff.

Q: How do you document and track administrative fees?

Expected Answer: Should explain their system for tracking fees, including how they maintain records, ensure accurate billing, and monitor fee collection across multiple events.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is included in an administrative fee?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic components covered by administrative fees, such as planning time, office expenses, and coordination costs.

Q: How do you explain administrative fees to clients?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of how to communicate fee structure to clients and explain the value provided for this charge.