Event Catering Director

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Performance-based bonuses

Health benefits

Retirement planning

Company vehicle or car allowance

Professional development budget

Hybrid work structure

Executive coaching

Networking opportunities

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Gauteng seeks an Event Catering Director to lead strategy and operations for premium catering services at a high-volume scale. You will guide culinary teams, sales executives, and event coordinators to deliver exceptional experiences for a discerning clientele.

The role combines remote strategic planning with on-site leadership at events and client meetings in Benoni, offering executive responsibilities and growth potential in a premier market.

Qualifications

• 8–10+ years in high-volume catering or hospitality leadership.
• Proven ability to drive strategy, profitability, and market growth.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and stakeholder management.
• Experience with menu engineering, event logistics, and client relations.
• Hybrid work model with willingness to work evenings/weekends as required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement catering strategy aligned with company goals.
• Oversee menu development, food/bev management, and event execution.
• Lead and mentor the catering team to excellence and collaboration.
• Manage budget, P&L, and financial performance for catering.
• Drive sales initiatives and cultivate strategic partnerships.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Represent the company at events and client meetings.
• Collaborate with other departments for seamless services.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and culinary innovations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Operational management

Financial oversight

Team-building

Business development

Sales acumen

Communication

Negotiation

P&L analysis

Education

Hospitality Management degree

MB A / Business administration (optional)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event management and catering firm in Benoni, Gauteng , is seeking a visionary and results-driven Event Catering Director. This senior leadership role is responsible for the strategic direction, operational oversight, and financial performance of all catering services. You will lead a diverse team of culinary professionals, sales executives, and event coordinators to deliver exceptional catering experiences for a high-profile clientele. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in high-volume catering operations, a strong understanding of market trends, and a proven ability to drive innovation and profitability. This hybrid role allows for strategic planning and administrative work remotely, complemented by on-site leadership at events and client meetings in the Benoni region. Your leadership will be instrumental in elevating our client's brand and solidifying its position as a market leader in Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the overall strategy for catering operations, aligning with company goals and market opportunities.
• Oversee all aspects of catering, including menu development, food and beverage management, event execution, and client relations.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire the catering team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Manage the catering department's budget, P&L, and financial performance, ensuring profitability and cost control.
• Drive sales initiatives, identify new market segments, and cultivate strategic partnerships.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, and licensing regulations.
• Enhance service standards and client satisfaction through innovative approaches and quality control.
• Represent the company at industry events, client presentations, and corporate functions.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless integration of services.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, culinary innovations, and competitive landscape.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in high-volume catering or hospitality management.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, operational management, and financial oversight of catering services.
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.
• Deep understanding of culinary arts, menu engineering, and event logistics.
• Strong business development and sales acumen with a history of revenue growth.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and P&L analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote strategic work with on-site operational leadership.
• Flexibility to work demanding hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required in Benoni .
• Relevant degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

Benefits

• Executive-level annual salary up to ZAR, commensurate with experience.
• Significant performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive executive health benefits and retirement planning.
• Company vehicle or generous car allowance.
• Substantial professional development budget and executive coaching.
• Hybrid work structure offering strategic flexibility and on-site impact.
• Opportunity to lead and shape a prestigious catering operation in Gauteng .
• Expense account for business development and client entertainment.
• Generous annual leave and sabbatical options.
• Access to exclusive industry conferences and networking events.