Catering Operations Lead - Service, Cost Control & Team Growth

Tsebo Solutions Group; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

Tsebo Solutions Group is seeking a capable Catering Lead in Johannesburg to support the Catering Manager in delivering high-quality food and service. You will supervise daily operations, lead staff, coordinate recruitment and training, and ensure safety, hygiene, and cost controls across the unit.

You will drive continuous improvement, manage stock and inventory, monitor budgets, and collaborate with clients to meet service expectations.

Qualifications

• Matric is essential; hospitality focus preferred.
• Relevant qualification in Hospitality Management or Catering is advantageous.
• Minimum 3 years’ catering/hospitality/food services experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist Catering Manager in overall unit performance.
• Ensure high-quality food and service as per Tsebo standards.
• Supervise daily catering operations for efficient service.
• Lead, motivate, and develop catering staff to meet targets.
• Conduct daily staff briefings and foster communication.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and performance management.
• Monitor attendance, productivity, grooming, and policies.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, HACCP, hygiene, health & safety.
• Conduct food quality and service audits; implement corrective actions.
• Monitor waste, stock usage, and profitability.
• Assist with menu planning, recipe standardization, and costs.
• Manage stock, receiving, storage, and inventory control.
• Verify supplier deliveries meet quality standards.
• Assist with budgeting and cost-saving initiatives.
• Analyze sales trends and operational reports for decisions.
• Prepare monthly operational, financial, and client reports.
• Build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints promptly.
• Ensure dining areas, kitchens, and storage meet standards.
• Conduct routine inspections for cleanliness and compliance.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and Tsebo standards.
• Assist in implementing strategic objectives and best practices.
• Manage special events and hospitality services when required.
• Safeguard and utilize company assets effectively.
• Promote customer service excellence and teamwork.
• Stand in for Catering Manager during absence.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Planning & organizing

Financial acumen

Food safety knowledge

Computer literacy

Communication

Works under pressure

Education

Matric

Hospitality/Catering qualification

Job description

Tsebo Solutions Group is seeking a capable Catering Lead in Johannesburg to support the Catering Manager in delivering high-quality food and service. You will supervise daily operations, lead staff, coordinate recruitment and training, and ensure safety, hygiene, and cost controls across the unit.

You will drive continuous improvement, manage stock and inventory, monitor budgets, and collaborate with clients to meet service expectations.