Senior Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Catering Operations Manager to oversee all facets of large-scale catering operations. This leadership role requires expertise across food production, service delivery, logistics, and quality control, with a focus on efficiency, profitability, and client satisfaction.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in senior catering leadership, strong financial acumen, and proven ability to mentor a professional team while ensuring strict food safety and

Qualifications

• Extensive leadership experience in catering ops; senior role.
• Strong budgeting, forecasting and cost control capabilities.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale catering operations.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all catering operations including production, service and logistics.
• Develop strategic operational plans to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Oversee budget, cost control and financial performance for the division.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Catering operations

Supply chain

Health & safety

Data analysis

Procurement

Team management

Education

Bachelor's in Hospitality Management

Tools

Catering management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent national catering enterprise, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Catering Operations Manager to oversee and optimize their extensive operations in the Randburg region. This strategic role requires a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of all facets of catering management, from culinary operations and supply chain to client relations and financial performance. You will be responsible for driving efficiency, maintaining the highest standards of quality and service, and leading a team of operational staff. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with a proven track record of success in managing large-scale catering services within Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of catering operations, including food production, service delivery, logistics, and quality control.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to enhance efficiency, profitability, and client satisfaction.
• Oversee budget management, cost control, and financial performance for the catering division.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of catering professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene standards and regulations.
• Manage supplier relationships and optimize the procurement of ingredients and supplies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all operational areas.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to support business development and client retention.
• Analyze operational data and KPIs to identify trends and implement performance enhancements.
• Oversee the maintenance and deployment of catering equipment and facilities.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in catering operations management, with a significant track record in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing large-scale catering operations, including diverse event types.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic operational plans.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Proficiency in relevant catering management software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, commensurate with the seniority of this role. This is a significant opportunity to lead and shape the catering operations for a major player in the industry, based in or overseeing operations in Randburg . You will have access to extensive resources and opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to culinary excellence and operational innovation, contributing directly to the success of a leading catering service in Gauteng.