Corporate Catering Operations Lead

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with performance-in

Full-time benefits: health insurance,

Paid time off, retirement plan options

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Corporate Catering Operations Lead in Centurion to manage daily catering operations, lead kitchen and service staff, ensure food safety and high service quality, and coordinate logistics for corporate events.

The role emphasizes hands-on leadership, process improvement, inventory control, cost management, and collaboration with sales/event planning. Ideal for professionals aiming to drive client satisfaction in Gauteng's corporate events market.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of catering operations experience.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficiency in inventory control and cost management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple priorities.
• Driver's license and reliable transportation may be required.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts including early mornings, evenings and weekends in Centurion.
• Passion for delivering exceptional service and high-quality food.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise daily catering operations, including food production, service, and event setup.
• Ensure all catered events meet high standards for quality, presentation, and service.
• Lead, train, and motivate kitchen and service staff to perform at their best.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering supplies and minimizing waste.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols.
• Coordinate with sales and event planning teams to ensure seamless event execution.
• Handle client inquiries and address issues promptly and professionally.
• Develop and refine operational procedures to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Maintain equipment and ensure a safe working environment for all staff.
• Contribute to menu planning and costing as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Organizational skills

Communication

Time management

Problem solving

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious corporate catering service provider located in Centurion , is seeking a dedicated and experienced Corporate Catering Operations Lead . This hands‑on role is critical to ensuring the smooth execution of daily catering operations, focusing on delivering high‑quality food and impeccable service to a discerning corporate clientele. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for delivering exceptional client experiences. You will be responsible for managing kitchen staff, overseeing food preparation and presentation, coordinating service logistics, and ensuring adherence to stringent food safety and quality standards. This position requires a proactive approach to problem‑solving and a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of operational efficiency. You will be a key player in maintaining our client's reputation for excellence in the competitive Gauteng corporate events market. This role offers the chance to lead a dedicated team and make a tangible impact on the success of daily operations and client satisfaction. Join a company that values professionalism and high standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise daily catering operations, including food production, service, and event setup.
• Ensure all catered events meet our client's high standards for quality, presentation, and service.
• Lead, train, and motivate kitchen and service staff to perform at their best.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering supplies and minimizing waste.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols.
• Coordinate with sales and event planning teams to ensure seamless event execution.
• Handle client inquiries and address any issues or concerns promptly and professionally.
• Develop and refine operational procedures to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Maintain equipment and ensure a safe working environment for all staff.
• Contribute to menu planning and costing as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in catering operations, preferably in a corporate or high‑volume setting.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficiency in inventory control and cost management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and handle multiple priorities.
• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation may be required.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as dictated by event schedules in the Centurion area.
• A passion for delivering exceptional service and high‑quality food.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including potential for performance‑based incentives.
• This role comes with full‑time benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan options.

You will have the opportunity to work with a dedicated team in a professional environment and contribute to the success of a respected catering company. Continuous training and professional development opportunities are available. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career in the vibrant catering industry.