Catering Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Company vehicle for business use

Professional development and ongoing培训

Career progression opportunities

Autonomy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Catering Manager to oversee operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will plan, coordinate, and deliver a wide range of catering events, from corporate functions to private celebrations, while leading a team of event staff and chefs.

The role requires 4+ years in catering management, strong budgeting, cost control, and food safety knowledge. You will build client relationships, manage vendors, and ensure profitability and exceptional service across all events.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of catering management, event planning, or related hospitality role.
• Proven track record managing multiple catering events simultaneously.
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage operations, menu planning and costing.
• Excellent leadership, team management and motivational skills.
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal abilities with diverse clients.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Strong budgeting, cost control and profitability analysis.
• Knowledge of health, safety and sanitation regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee lifecycle of catering events from client consultation to on-site execution and follow-up.
• Develop detailed event plans including staffing, menus, equipment, and logistics.
• Lead catering team including event staff, chefs, and service crew.
• Build and maintain client relationships, understanding and exceeding expectations.
• Collaborate with culinary team to ensure innovative, cost-effective menus and trends.
• Manage catering budgets, control costs, and optimize resources for profitability.
• Ensure events meet food safety, hygiene, and quality standards.
• Source and manage vendor relationships for timely delivery of quality products.
• Conduct site inspections and assess potential events.
• Resolve client issues and operational challenges during events.

Skills

Leadership

Client relations

Event planning

Budgeting

Food & beverage operations

Staff management

Customer service

Health and safety

Travel willingness

Driver's license

Education

Hospitality Management degree

Tools

Event management software

Office software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading full-service catering company, is seeking a proactive and experienced Catering Manager to oversee operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. This role demands exceptional organizational skills, a keen understanding of event logistics, and strong client relationship management abilities. You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and successful delivery of a wide range of catering events, from corporate functions to private celebrations. The ideal candidate will possess a strategic mindset, a talent for problem-solving, and a commitment to delivering outstanding service and culinary experiences. This position offers a significant opportunity to manage and grow the catering division in Polokwane, ensuring profitability and client satisfaction. We are looking for a dynamic leader who can inspire their team and manage all facets of the catering business, including staff, inventory, and client accounts.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of catering events, from initial client consultation and proposal development to on-site execution and post-event follow-up.
• Develop and manage detailed event plans, including staffing schedules, menu selections, equipment needs, and logistical arrangements.
• Lead and manage the catering team, including event staff, chefs, and service crew, ensuring high performance and professional conduct.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their expectations are met and exceeded.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure menu offerings are innovative, cost-effective, and aligned with client requirements and industry trends.
• Manage catering budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation to ensure profitability.
• Ensure all events adhere to strict food safety, hygiene, and quality standards.
• Source and manage relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of quality products and services.
• Conduct site inspections and assessments for potential events.
• Resolve any client issues or operational challenges promptly and effectively during events.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4 years of experience in catering management, event planning, or a related hospitality management role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing multiple catering events simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of food and beverage operations, menu planning, and costing.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with diverse clients.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and profitability analysis.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the food service industry.
• Must possess a valid driver\'s license and be willing to travel within the Polokwane region and surrounding areas as needed.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, often required for events.
• A degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package.
• You will have the opportunity to lead and shape a key division within a reputable company in Polokwane.
• Professional development and ongoing training are provided to support your growth.
• This role offers the challenge and reward of managing diverse and exciting events, with significant autonomy.
• The position includes performance-based incentives, a company vehicle for business use, and opportunities for career progression.
• Join a forward-thinking organization that values its employees and their contributions to creating memorable occasions.