Event Catering Director

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career growth

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an ambitious Event Catering Director for a premier on-site role in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead the catering operations, drive growth, and deliver exceptional client experiences across large-scale events.

You will develop innovative menus, manage a diverse team of chefs and event staff, and ensure top-tier food safety, quality, and profitability. Based in Richards Bay or willing to relocate, you will shape our client’s culinary excellence.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in catering/hospitality with 5+ years in senior management.
• Proven success with P&L and profitability targets.
• Exceptional culinary expertise and menu development.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder communication.
• Based in Richards Bay region or willing to relocate.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic plans to grow catering business in Richards Bay.
• Oversee all event catering operations from client to post-event.
• Lead and mentor the catering team for excellence.
• Create innovative menus balancing trends and cost.
• Manage budgets and ensure profitability targets.
• Maintain HACCP compliance and food safety standards.
• Build relationships with clients, suppliers and venues.
• Oversee procurement and manage inventory and waste.
• Ensure flawless on-site execution of events.
• Stay updated on trends to improve service offerings.
• Develop department procedures and standards.

Skills

Leadership

Client relations

Menu development

HACCP knowledge

Budgeting

Event planning

Education

Hospitality Management degree

MBA preferred

Tools

Budgeting tools

ERP systems

CRM software

Procurement software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of premium catering services in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA region, is seeking an experienced and visionary Event Catering Director. This is a pivotal on-site role responsible for overseeing all facets of the company's catering operations, driving business growth, and ensuring unparalleled client satisfaction. You will be instrumental in developing innovative culinary offerings, managing a diverse team, and maintaining the highest standards of service and quality. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of the catering and hospitality industry, and a proven track record in delivering successful, large-scale events. This role demands a strategic thinker with a passion for excellence, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to inspire and lead a dedicated team. As the Event Catering Director, you will be the face of our client's culinary excellence, responsible for fostering strong client relationships and expanding their market presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to grow the catering business and enhance market share in the Richards Bay area.
• Oversee all aspects of event catering operations, from initial client consultation to post-event evaluation.
• Lead, mentor, and manage the catering team, including chefs, event managers, and service staff, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Create innovative and diverse menus, considering current culinary trends, seasonal availability, and client preferences, while ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Manage budgets, control costs effectively, and ensure profitability targets are met or exceeded.
• Maintain stringent standards for food quality, safety, and hygiene (HACCP compliance).
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and venue partners.
• Oversee the procurement of high-quality ingredients and supplies, managing inventory and minimizing waste.
• Ensure flawless execution of all catered events, providing on-site leadership and problem-solving as needed.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to continuously innovate and improve service offerings.
• Manage and develop the catering department's operational procedures and standards.

Requirements

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in the catering and hospitality industry, with at least 5 years in a senior management or director-level role.
• Proven success in driving business growth, managing P&Ls, and achieving profitability targets.
• Exceptional culinary expertise and a keen understanding of menu development and food presentation.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client relationship management abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation regulations, and event planning best practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple complex events simultaneously.
• Proficiency in financial management and budgeting tools.
• A relevant degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or Culinary Arts is highly preferred.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area and legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary ranging from R .
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• Lead a talented and passionate team dedicated to culinary excellence.
• Be instrumental in shaping the future of a renowned catering service.
• Work in a vibrant and growing coastal region.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.