Corporate Events Catering Director

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Growth opportunities and leadership

Prestigious division leadership

Dynamic upscale corporate environment

Performance-based bonus

Strategic initiatives support

Shaping premier corporate experiences

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton is seeking an accomplished Corporate Events Catering Director to lead our client's premium corporate catering division. You will oversee concept development, menu design, client relations and financial management in a high-end, fast-paced setting.

The role requires 8–10 years in catering management with strong leadership, strategic thinking, and proven P&L accountability. Based in Gauteng, relocation to Sandton and evening/weekend availability are preferred to meet client

Qualifications

• 8–10 years of progressive catering management experience in corporate events
• Strong leadership, team development, and client relationship skills
• Proven P&L accountability and strategic business development capabilities
• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration or related field preferred
• Willingness to relocate to Sandton and to work evenings/weekends as required

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the entire corporate catering division, including strategic planning, operational execution, and team development
• Develop innovative catering strategies and service models to meet evolving client needs
• Oversee bespoke menus, quality control, and dietary compliance
• Manage budgets, P&L, and financial performance for the catering department
• Cultivate long-term relationships with key corporate clients
• Oversee vendor selection, negotiation, and cost management
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and sanitation regulations
• Drive sales and business development to expand the catering portfolio
• Mentor and develop the catering team to achieve excellence

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of premium corporate event services in Sandton , Gauteng, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Corporate Events Catering Director. This senior leadership role demands a visionary individual with a proven track record in managing large-scale corporate catering operations and driving business growth. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of catering, from conceptualization and menu design to client relations and financial management, ensuring the highest standards of service and quality. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of the corporate events market, and a passion for creating impactful culinary experiences. This is a key position within our client's organization, requiring a strategic mindset and the ability to inspire a dedicated team to deliver excellence in Sandton .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the entire corporate catering division, including strategic planning, operational execution, and team development.
• Develop and implement innovative catering strategies and service models to meet evolving corporate client needs.
• Oversee the creation of bespoke menus and culinary experiences, focusing on quality, creativity, and dietary compliance.
• Manage budgets, P&L responsibilities, and financial performance for the catering department, ensuring profitability.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key corporate clients.
• Oversee vendor selection, negotiation, and management to ensure high-quality products and services at competitive costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Drive sales and business development efforts to expand the company's corporate catering portfolio.
• Mentor and develop the catering team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in catering management, with a significant focus on corporate events and a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex, high-volume catering operations and P&L accountability.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, business development, and financial management skills.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
• Deep understanding of the corporate events industry, culinary trends, and service standards.
• Excellent client relationship management and negotiation skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety and health regulations.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is highly preferred.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Sandton area, with availability for evening and weekend work as required.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Significant opportunity for professional growth and impact.
• Lead a prestigious catering division for a market leader.
• Work in a dynamic and upscale corporate environment.
• Performance-based bonus structure.
• Be part of shaping exceptional corporate experiences in Gauteng .
• Access to resources and support for strategic initiatives.