Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health benefits

Career development opportunities

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Catering Operations Manager in Bloemfontein to lead daily catering activities, ensure top-quality food, and deliver exceptional client service.

You will oversee kitchen and service teams, manage inventory, monitor health and safety, and optimise processes to drive efficiency, cost control, and seamless event execution for corporate lunches and banquets.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in catering or food service management.
• Proven experience in managing kitchen and service teams.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (HACCP preferred) and sanitation practices.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Bloemfontein.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency in inventory management and basic financial reporting.
• A passion for food and delivering exceptional customer service.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
• Relevant certification in food safety or hospitality management is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily catering operations, including food preparation, service, and delivery.
• Lead, train, and supervise kitchen and service staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and stock control, to minimize waste and ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and sanitation regulations and standards.
• Develop and implement efficient operational procedures and workflows.
• Coordinate with the sales and events team to ensure smooth execution of catered events.
• Manage equipment maintenance and ensure all operational assets are in good working order.
• Handle client inquiries and feedback, resolving any issues promptly and professionally.
• Monitor food quality and presentation standards, making adjustments as needed.
• Contribute to budget management and financial reporting for the operations department.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Food safety HACCP

Inventory management

Budgeting

Operations coordination

Education

Food safety certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable and established catering service based in Bloemfontein, Free State , is seeking a dedicated and experienced Catering Operations Manager to oversee their day-to-day operations and ensure the highest standards of food quality and client service. This role is vital for managing kitchen staff, coordinating event logistics, controlling inventory, and optimizing operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of catering processes, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. You will be instrumental in ensuring that every event, from small corporate luncheons to large banquets, is executed seamlessly and successfully. This position requires a hands‑on leader who is passionate about food, service, and the operational intricacies of the catering industry within Bloemfontein . Your expertise will directly impact client satisfaction and the profitability of the business, making this a crucial role within the organization. You will be responsible for maintaining consistency and excellence across all aspects of the catering service, ensuring operational fluidity and client delight.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily catering operations, including food preparation, service, and delivery.


• Lead, train, and supervise kitchen and service staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.


• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and stock control, to minimize waste and ensure cost-effectiveness.


• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations and standards.


• Develop and implement efficient operational procedures and workflows.


• Coordinate with the sales and events team to ensure smooth execution of catered events.


• Manage equipment maintenance and ensure all operational assets are in good working order.


• Handle client inquiries and feedback, resolving any issues promptly and professionally.


• Monitor food quality and presentation standards, making adjustments as needed.


• Contribute to budget management and financial reporting for the operations department.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in catering or food service management.


• Proven experience in managing kitchen and service teams.


• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (HACCP preferred) and sanitation practices.


• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.


• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by event schedules in Bloemfontein .


• Strong leadership and communication skills.


• Proficiency in inventory management and basic financial reporting.


• A passion for food and delivering exceptional customer service.


• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.


• Relevant certification in food safety or hospitality management is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, opportunities for professional development and career advancement, and a supportive work environment in Bloemfontein .


• Health benefits and potential for performance-based bonuses are also part of the compensation.


• Join a well-respected catering company and help shape its operational future.