Head Caterer - Events Specialist

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 77,000 - 103,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career growth

Training and development

Profit sharing

Staff perks related to event services

Job summary

Placements24 is currently seeking a Head Caterer for our client in Kimberley to lead the culinary division across corporate functions, weddings, and large social events. This hands-on role demands strong leadership, menu design, and meticulous execution to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

You will manage kitchen operations, cost control, supplier relations, food safety compliance, and coordinate event logistics.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a senior catering role (Head Caterer/Executive Chef or Senior Catering Manager).
• Proven experience in menu creation, costing and kitchen management for diverse events.
• Strong leadership and team management skills; ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of event planning, logistics, and client relationship management.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events.
• Strong budgeting and cost-control skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within Kimberley region and surroundings.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as per event schedules.
• Passion for food, creativity, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Responsibilities

• Oversee catering operations from menu design to service delivery and event execution.
• Lead and manage chefs, kitchen staff, and service personnel.
• Develop innovative menus catering to client preferences and dietary needs.
• Manage food costs, inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health regulations.
• Coordinate logistics for events including staffing, equipment, transport, and setup.
• Work with events team to understand client requirements and budgets.
• Monitor client feedback and implement improvements.
• Maintain relationships with clients, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot issues during planning or execution to ensure seamless delivery.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing events management company, is seeking a highly experienced and creative Head Caterer to lead their culinary division in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This is a crucial role responsible for the strategic planning, development, and execution of all catering services across a diverse portfolio of events, including corporate functions, weddings, and large-scale social gatherings. The ideal candidate will possess a strong culinary background, exceptional leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of event logistics and client management. You will be tasked with driving culinary innovation, managing kitchen operations, controlling costs, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and service are consistently delivered. This position in Kimberley offers a significant opportunity to shape the future of our client's catering offerings and build a reputation for excellence. We are looking for a hands‑on leader who is passionate about food and events, with a proven ability to manage teams and deliver exceptional client experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of catering operations, from menu design and development to food preparation, service delivery, and event execution.


• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of chefs, kitchen staff, and service personnel, ensuring high performance and adherence to standards.


• Develop innovative and appealing menus that cater to a wide range of client preferences, dietary needs, and event styles.


• Manage food costs, inventory, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.


• Ensure strict compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and health regulations.


• Work closely with the events team to understand client requirements, budget constraints, and event specific needs.


• Plan and coordinate all logistical aspects of catering for events, including staffing, equipment, transportation, and setup.


• Monitor client feedback and implement improvements to service and offerings.


• Maintain excellent relationships with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders.


• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that arise during event planning or execution to ensure seamless delivery.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior catering role, such as Head Caterer, Executive Chef in catering, or Senior Catering Manager.


• Proven experience in menu creation, costing, and kitchen management for diverse events.


• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.


• Excellent understanding of event planning, logistics, and client relationship management.


• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices is essential.


• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously.


• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost control.


• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel within the Kimberley region and surrounding areas as needed.


• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules.


• A passion for food, creativity, and a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package and excellent opportunities for career growth within the events industry in Kimberley.


• You will have the chance to lead exciting and varied events, working with a dynamic team.


• Professional development and ongoing training are provided.


• This role offers a significant impact on the company's success and a rewarding career path.


• The position includes performance incentives, potential for profit sharing, and staff perks related to event services.


• Join a company that values innovation, dedication, and client satisfaction.