Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Medical aid and life insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Generous leave allowance

Company-provided vehicle

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks a seasoned Catering Operations Manager to lead its catering division. You will oversee strategic planning, financial management, team leadership and service excellence to ensure top quality and client satisfaction.

The role requires strong leadership, a deep hospitality operations background in the Free State, and a proven track record in P&L management, cost control and menu engineering.

Qualifications

• Experience leading catering operations and teams.
• Proven track record of P&L management and cost control.
• Strong leadership and staff development abilities.
• Solid understanding of menu engineering and event logistics.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to grow the catering business and profitability.
• Oversee menus, procurement, inventory control, and quality assurance.
• Lead and mentor a diverse catering staff, driving high performance and service excellence.
• Manage event delivery to meet and exceed client expectations.
• Administer budgets, control costs, and optimize resources for efficiency and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, sanitation and licensing regulations.

Skills

Catering leadership

P&L management

Cost control

Menu engineering

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned Catering Operations Manager to lead their esteemed catering division in Bloemfontein . This critical role involves overseeing all operational aspects of the catering business, from strategic planning and financial management to team leadership and service excellence. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of food quality, client satisfaction, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership acumen and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry within the Free State region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve business growth and profitability targets for the catering department.
• Manage all operational activities, including menu planning, procurement, inventory control, and quality assurance.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a diverse team of catering staff, fostering a culture of high performance and excellent service.
• Oversee event execution, ensuring seamless delivery of catering services that meet and exceed client expectations.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation for maximum efficiency and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, and licensing regulations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in catering management or hospitality operations, with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record of successful P&L management and cost control within a catering or food service environment.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff.
• Excellent understanding of culinary trends, menu engineering, and event logistics.
• Exceptional problem-solving, decision-making, and communication abilities.
• Relevant degree or certification in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with bonus potential based on performance.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous leave allowance and company-provided vehicle.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the organization.
• A stable and reputable company with a strong presence in Bloemfontein .