Catering Operations Manager

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Health insurance

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto seeks an experienced Catering Operations Manager to oversee daily catering operations across a diverse event portfolio. You will lead a team of catering staff, plan logistics, and drive service quality and profitability.

The role requires strong leadership, budgeting acumen, and HACCP knowledge to ensure health standards and client satisfaction. You will manage relationships with clients and suppliers, optimize workflows, and ensure smooth event execution from booking to

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a senior operational management role within catering/hospitality.
• Proven track record managing complex events and large-scale catering operations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with ability to motivate staff.
• Excellent understanding of budgeting, financial management, and cost control.
• Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP) and health regulations.
• Proficient with event management software and standard office apps.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing client needs in Soweto.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all daily catering operations from client booking to post-event follow-up.
• Supervise and lead a team of catering staff, including event coordinators and kitchen support.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance service quality, efficiency, and profitability.
• Manage event logistics including scheduling, staffing, equipment, and transportation.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, hygiene, and licensing regulations.
• Monitor budgets, control costs, and manage resources effectively.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, suppliers, and venues.
• Oversee inventory management and procurement for catering supplies and equipment.
• Troubleshoot operational issues during events and improve processes continuously.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budgeting

Communication

Problem-solving

HACCP knowledge

Negotiation

Event management software

Education

Diploma in Hospitality Management

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in the catering and hospitality sector, is looking for a dynamic and experienced Catering Operations Manager to join their team in Soweto. This pivotal role involves overseeing the seamless execution of catering services for a diverse portfolio of events. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing large-scale operations, driving efficiency, and ensuring client satisfaction. You will be responsible for managing a dedicated team, optimizing operational workflows, and maintaining the highest standards of service and quality. This is a fantastic opportunity for a strategic leader to make a significant impact within a well-established and respected company in the Soweto region. Your expertise will be key to the continued success and growth of our client's catering division.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all daily catering operations, ensuring efficient service delivery from initial client booking to post-event follow-up.
• Supervise and lead a team of catering staff, including event coordinators, service personnel, and kitchen support.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance service quality, efficiency, and profitability.
• Manage event logistics, including scheduling, staffing, equipment, and transportation.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, hygiene, and licensing regulations.
• Monitor operational budgets, control costs, and manage resources effectively.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and venue partners.
• Oversee inventory management and procurement processes for catering supplies and equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any operational issues that may arise during events.
• Continuously assess and improve operational processes and service standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior operational management role within the catering or hospitality industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex events and large-scale catering operations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control principles.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP) and health regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing client needs in Soweto.
• A relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is advantageous.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the company.
• Exposure to a wide variety of prestigious events and clientele.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment in Soweto.
• Travel allowances for site visits as needed.