Catering Operations Lead

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Medical + retirement benefits

Leave & holidays

Training programs

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay is seeking an experienced Catering Operations Lead to join a dynamic team in a hybrid role that blends hands-on operations with strategic planning for expanding catering services.

You will oversee food preparation, service, and client relations while driving efficiency, cost control, and service quality across the department.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of catering operations management experience.
• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, menu planning, and food costing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in managing budgets and controlling operational expenses.
• Experience in a hybrid work environment balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Certification in Food Safety and Handling is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of catering operations, including food preparation, service, and client relations.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service quality.
• Supervise, train, and mentor catering staff, fostering a culture of teamwork and high performance.
• Oversee inventory management, procurement of supplies, and vendor relationships, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the catering environment.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop new menus and service offerings tailored to client needs.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Food safety

Budgeting

Menu planning

Vendor management

Education

Food safety certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a results-driven and experienced Catering Operations Lead to join their dynamic team in Richards Bay . This hybrid role requires a hands‑on leader capable of managing both on‑site operations and strategic planning for our expanding catering services. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of food quality, service delivery, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of the catering business, and the ability to foster a positive and productive work environment, while contributing to the company's growth and reputation for excellence in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of catering operations, including food preparation, service, and client relations.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service quality.
• Supervise, train, and mentor catering staff, fostering a culture of teamwork and high performance.
• Oversee inventory management, procurement of supplies, and vendor relationships, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the catering environment.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to develop new menus and service offerings tailored to client needs.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in catering operations management , with a proven track record of success.
• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, menu planning, and food costing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in managing budgets and controlling operational expenses.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment , balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Certification in Food Safety and Handling is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance incentives.
• Opportunity to lead and grow a key department within the company.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and ongoing training programs.