Senior Catering Event Manager

Placements24; Waukee (IA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Subsidized meals

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a distinguished events company in Paarl to hire a Senior Catering Event Manager. You will oversee end-to-end, high-end catered events, aligning client briefs with flawless execution and meticulous budgeting.

You will lead a dedicated team, collaborate with culinary and venue teams, and maintain strong client relations, ensuring memorable guest experiences in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years in event management/catering management with a client-facing focus.
• Proven success delivering high-end, complex events.
• Excellent understanding of catering operations, venue logistics.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end management of all catered events, ensuring flawless execution and client satisfaction.
• Develop detailed event plans, including timelines, staffing schedules, menus, and budgets.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, guiding and realizing their vision.
• Collaborate with culinary team to design tailored menus meeting client needs.
• Manage event logistics, including vendor coordination, equipment rental, and on-site setup.
• Lead and motivate on-site event staff, ensuring professional service.
• Monitor event budgets, track expenditures and profitability targets.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and client feedback sessions.
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends and best practices in catering and events.
• Foster relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal teams.

Skills

Client-facing

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Team management

Education

Diploma/degree in Hospitality Management or Event Management

Business-related degree preferred

Tools

Event management software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished events company specializing in bespoke catering and venue management in the heart of the Western Cape's wine region, is seeking a highly experienced and detail-oriented Senior Catering Event Manager for their operations in Paarl. This crucial role demands a strategic thinker with a proven ability to orchestrate seamless, high-caliber events from conception to completion. You will be the driving force behind client satisfaction, ensuring every aspect of the catering experience, from initial brief to final execution, exceeds expectations. This position requires a deep understanding of culinary trends, impeccable logistical planning, and exceptional client relationship management skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, managing multiple complex events concurrently and leading a dedicated team of catering and event professionals. You will be instrumental in maintaining and enhancing the company's reputation for excellence in the competitive Paarl events market. This is an opportunity to manage prestigious events and contribute to the continued success of a respected brand in a breathtaking location.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end management of all catered events, ensuring flawless execution and client satisfaction.
• Develop detailed event plans, including timelines, staffing schedules, menus, and budgets.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing expert guidance and ensuring their vision is realized.
• Collaborate closely with the culinary team to design innovative and tailored menus that meet client needs and preferences.
• Manage event logistics, including vendor coordination, equipment rental, and on-site setup.
• Lead and motivate on-site event staff, ensuring professional service delivery.
• Monitor event budgets, track expenditures, and ensure profitability targets are met.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and client feedback sessions to identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, best practices, and emerging concepts in catering and events.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal teams.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of experience in event management and/or catering management, with a strong emphasis on client-facing roles.
• Proven ability to manage complex, high-end events with a focus on detailed planning and execution.
• Excellent understanding of catering operations, food and beverage service, and venue logistics.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience in managing and motivating teams.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office Suite.
• A relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by event schedules.
• A creative mindset with a passion for delivering unique and memorable guest experiences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• You will have opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading events company.
• The role comes with the advantage of working in the stunning Paarl region, offering a superb lifestyle.
• Additional benefits include subsidized meals, generous annual leave, and a supportive team environment.
• This position provides the chance to manage truly exceptional events and work within a company that values quality, creativity, and client dedication.