Senior Event Catering Specialist

Placements24; Riverton (UT); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Our client in Upington is seeking a Senior Event Catering Specialist to lead planning and execution of diverse catering events. The role blends strategic planning with on-site management, requiring culinary knowledge, logistics, and client management skills.

You will design bespoke menus, coordinate all operations, manage budgets, and mentor junior staff, while ensuring health and safety standards and guest satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event catering, event planning, or related hospitality.
• Proven experience in menu development and cost management.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, food safety, and service standards.
• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing event requirements.
• Proficiency in MS Office; knowledge of event management software is a plus.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as needed.
• A creative and resourceful approach to event planning and problem-solving.
• Passion for food, hospitality, and creating outstanding guest experiences.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with clients to plan catering for events, including menu selection and dietary considerations.
• Oversee logistical planning to ensure timely, high-quality service delivery.
• Manage supplier relationships and sourcing ingredients and equipment.
• Coordinate with kitchen and service teams to ensure consistent quality.
• Provide on-site supervision during events for smooth operations.
• Develop and manage event budgets and track expenses.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and industry best practices.
• Handle client inquiries and resolve issues promptly and professionally.
• Help train and mentor junior catering staff.
• Ensure health, safety, and hygiene standards are met.

Skills

5+ years event catering

Menu development

Cost management

Client relationship management

MS Office

Event management software

Tools

MS Office Suite

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded events and catering service provider in the **Northern Cape**, is seeking an experienced Senior Event Catering Specialist to join their team in **Upington**. This role is crucial for the successful planning and execution of diverse catering events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of culinary knowledge, logistical expertise, and exceptional client management skills. You will be responsible for working closely with clients to understand their needs, designing bespoke menus, coordinating all operational aspects, and ensuring the delivery of a flawless catering experience. This position requires a meticulous approach, strong problem-solving abilities, and a passion for creating memorable culinary moments. The role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to significant events within the **Upington** area and to grow within a respected company. You will be instrumental in upholding the company's reputation for quality and service excellence across all catered functions. The hybrid nature of the role allows for a balance between strategic planning and on-site execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with clients to conceptualize and plan catering for events, including menu selection and dietary accommodations.
• Oversee the logistical planning of all catering events, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of services.
• Manage supplier relationships, sourcing high-quality ingredients and necessary equipment.
• Coordinate with kitchen staff and service teams to ensure consistent quality and presentation.
• Provide on-site supervision during events, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional guest experience.
• Develop and manage event budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring profitability.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of culinary trends and event industry best practices.
• Handle client inquiries and feedback, resolving issues promptly and professionally.
• Assist in training and mentoring junior catering staff.
• Ensure all health, safety, and hygiene standards are met throughout the catering process.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event catering, event planning, or a related hospitality role.
• Proven experience in menu development and cost management.
• Strong understanding of catering operations, food safety, and service standards.
• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing event requirements.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite; knowledge of event management software is a plus.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as needed.
• A creative and resourceful approach to event planning and problem-solving.
• Passion for food, hospitality, and creating outstanding guest experiences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and performance-based incentives.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement are provided.
• Employees can enjoy a hybrid work arrangement, balancing office-based planning with on-site event management.
• Access to subsidized meals during working hours and a supportive team environment are also part of the package.
• This role offers the chance to work on diverse and exciting events in the **Upington** region and contribute to a company known for its commitment to quality.
• You will play a key role in delivering memorable experiences for clients.