Catering Events Director

Placements24

Stellenbosch

Hybrid

ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Relocation assistance

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Catering Events Director to lead our operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This senior role drives strategy, profitability, and flawless execution of luxury catering events, overseeing planners, chefs, and service teams to deliver memorable experiences.

The ideal candidate brings 7+ years in senior leadership within catering/events, a strong business acumen, and exceptional leadership capabilities aligned with the luxury events market.

Qualifications

7+ years in a senior leadership role within catering or event management
Strong strategic planning and business development experience
Financial management and P&L oversight experience
Exceptional leadership and communication skills
Deep understanding of luxury event trends and client service excellence
Proven ability to negotiate and manage relationships with clients and suppliers
Proficiency in event management software, CRM systems, and MS Office
Creative flair with a passion for high-quality event experiences
Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends
Relevant degree in Hospitality Management or Business Administration is highly desirable
Experience in Stellenbosch or Western Cape premium event market is a plus

Responsibilities

Develop and execute the strategic vision for the catering events division
Oversee all aspects of event planning, production and execution
Manage and mentor the catering and events team
Drive revenue growth through sales initiatives and client management
Control budgets, P&L, and ensure profitability
Maintain relationships with clients, vendors, and partners
Ensure health, safety and food handling compliance
Stay updated on industry trends and best practices
Oversee menu development and presentation aligning with brand
Represent the company at industry events and maintain a high profile
Implement and refine procedures to maximize efficiency and guest experience

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Business development

Financial management

Client relationship management

Negotiation

Event management software

CRM systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Creativity

Education

Bachelor's in Hospitality Management

Bachelor's in Business Administration

Tools

Event management software

CRM software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier hospitality group renowned for its exquisite culinary offerings and event management expertise, is seeking a visionary Catering Events Director to lead their operations in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This senior leadership role is responsible for the overall strategic direction, profitability, and execution of all catering events. You will oversee a talented team of event planners, chefs, and service staff, ensuring every occasion delivered by our client is a seamless and memorable experience. The ideal candidate possesses a strong blend of creative flair, business acumen, and exceptional leadership capabilities, with a deep understanding of the luxury event market in Stellenbosch and surrounding areas. This role involves a hybrid work structure, balancing strategic planning with on-site event oversight.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and execute the strategic vision and business plan for the catering events division.
Oversee all aspects of event planning, production, and execution, ensuring superior quality and client satisfaction.
Manage and mentor the catering and events team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high performance.
Drive revenue growth through strategic sales initiatives, client relationship management, and market analysis.
Control budgets, manage P&L statements, and ensure the profitability of all catering events.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, vendors, and partners in the Stellenbosch hospitality scene.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and food handling regulations.
Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging concepts, and best practices in event catering.
Oversee menu development and presentation, ensuring alignment with brand standards and client expectations.
Represent the company at industry events and maintain a high professional profile.
Implement and refine operational procedures to maximize efficiency and guest experience.

Requirements

Extensive experience (7+ years) in a senior leadership role within the catering or event management industry, with a proven track record of success in directing complex events.
Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, business development, and financial management within the hospitality sector.
Exceptional leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
Deep understanding of luxury event trends, food and beverage concepts, and client service excellence.
Strong negotiation and relationship management skills with clients and suppliers.
Proficiency in event management software, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Creative flair and a passion for delivering unique and high-quality event experiences.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate event schedules.
A relevant degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.
Experience within the Stellenbosch or broader Western Cape premium event market is a significant advantage.

Benefits