Senior Event Catering Manager

Placements24; Lorenziberg; On-site; EUR 49,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, seeks a Senior Event Catering Manager to lead end-to-end catering for weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations. You will design menus, oversee the complete event lifecycle, and manage a diverse team to deliver exceptional experiences.

The ideal candidate has strong organizational skills, superb client relationship abilities, and deep knowledge of food & beverage operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in catering management or event planning.
• Experience delivering high-end events and managing multiple events concurrently.
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage, menu development, and event logistics.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time management abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office suites.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing event requirements.
• A passion for hospitality and delivering outstanding client experiences.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays as required by the event schedule.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee all aspects of catering event planning and execution from conception to completion.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their vision is realized.
• Develop creative and appealing menus, considering client preferences, dietary needs, and current food trends.
• Coordinate all event logistics, including staffing, venue setup, equipment, and timely service delivery.
• Lead and manage a team of catering staff, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and quality standards at all times.
• Manage event budgets effectively, control costs, and ensure profitability targets are met.
• Liaise with suppliers and vendors to secure necessary resources and maintain high-quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that arise during events promptly and professionally.
• Conduct post-event debriefings and gather client feedback for continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Client management

Event planning

Budgeting

Time management

Education

Hospitality Management degree

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier provider of bespoke catering services, is seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Senior Event Catering Manager to join their team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is central to delivering exceptional culinary experiences for a wide range of events, including weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations. You will be responsible for managing the entire catering process, from initial client consultation and menu design to event execution and team leadership. The ideal candidate possesses outstanding organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, excellent client relationship management capabilities, and a deep understanding of food and beverage operations. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact in the vibrant event scene of Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and contribute to the success of memorable occasions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee all aspects of catering event planning and execution from conception to completion.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their vision is realized.


• Develop creative and appealing menus, considering client preferences, dietary needs, and current food trends.


• Coordinate all event logistics, including staffing, venue setup, equipment, and timely service delivery.


• Lead and manage a team of catering staff, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.


• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and quality standards at all times.


• Manage event budgets effectively, control costs, and ensure profitability targets are met.


• Liaise with suppliers and vendors to secure necessary resources and maintain high-quality standards.


• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that arise during events promptly and professionally.


• Conduct post-event debriefings and gather client feedback for continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in catering management or event planning, with a significant focus on high-end events.


• Proven ability to manage multiple events simultaneously and deliver exceptional results.


• Strong knowledge of food and beverage, menu development, and event logistics.


• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.


• Exceptional organizational and time management abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.


• Proficiency in event management software and standard office suites.


• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing event requirements.


• A passion for hospitality and delivering outstanding client experiences.


• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by the event schedule.


• Relevant qualification in Hospitality Management or a related field is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.


• Opportunity to manage high-profile and diverse catering events.


• Be part of a reputable and growing catering company.


• Professional development and training opportunities.


• Work in a dynamic and rewarding industry.


• Potential for career advancement within the organization.


• Collaborative and supportive team environment.


• Contribute to creating truly memorable occasions for clients.